The counterintelligence unit of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) successfully thwarted an attempt by a militant involved in hostilities in Donetsk to escape Ukraine. Following proactive measures, the suspect was arrested in a hotel in Kovel, where he was planning to leave for the European Union.
The investigation revealed that the individual is a resident of Donetsk who joined the Russian-backed armed group 'Somalia' in 2015, operating within the so-called 'DNR'.
He participated in battles for the Donetsk airport, where he was injured and subsequently discharged from enemy forces.
In late October 2025, under the guise of a displaced person, he traveled to the western border of Ukraine to obtain a Ukrainian passport for traveling to the EU.
The SBU had already located the suspect and apprehended him at the preparation stage for his escape.
Additionally, information is being verified regarding the possible connection of the arrested individual to Russian intelligence services that might have been planning his 'assignment' for conducting subversive activities in the EU.
During searches of the hotel room, Russian and 'DNR' passports, a 'military ID', and insignia of the aggressor country's armed formations were found.
Currently, SBU investigators have notified the suspect of charges under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine:

•  Part 1 of Article 111 (high treason committed in a state of war);
•  Part 2 of Article 260 (participation in activities of illegal armed formations).

The suspect is in custody without the right to bail. He faces a potential sentence of 15 years in prison with asset confiscation.
The comprehensive measures were conducted by the SBU in the Volyn region in cooperation with the State Border Guard Service under the procedural guidance of the regional prosecutor's office.