The counterintelligence unit of the Security Service of Ukraine, in collaboration with the National Police and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has uncovered a fraudulent scheme that facilitated the legalization of Russian nationals in the European Union.
The investigation revealed that an advisor from the MFA sold Ukrainian passports to several Russians seeking to travel to the EU in 2022.
This operation was active during the initial months of the large-scale invasion, while the suspect served as the second secretary responsible for consular affairs at the Ukrainian embassy in a European country.
While working at the diplomatic mission, the official accepted requests from Russian citizens wishing for seamless entry into the EU and unrestricted movement within its borders.
For a monetary reward, the official was processing Ukrainian citizenship applications and issuing foreign passports.
To find clients, the official utilized a network of intermediaries based in the EU who were in contact with Russian nationals.
Currently, there is an investigation into the possible involvement of these legalized Russians in intelligence or subversive activities for Russian services.
During the searches, a mobile phone containing evidence of the illegal activities was seized from the suspect.
The official has been notified of suspicion under part 2 of Article 332 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal transportation of persons across the state border of Ukraine by an official using their position).
The decision regarding the preventive measures for the suspect is pending. The investigation is proceeding with full cooperation from the MFA.