Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has reported thwarting an alleged attempt by Ukraine to hijack a Russian Tu-22M3 strategic bomber. This incident, according to the FSB, aimed to see the aircraft flown to Ukraine.

Alleged Recruitment and Incentives

The FSB, the main successor to the Soviet-era KGB, stated that Ukrainian intelligence tried to recruit a Russian military pilot. The pilot was allegedly offered a monetary reward and Italian citizenship to persuade him to fly the missile carrier to Ukraine.

Reuters could not independently verify these details. Additionally, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has not responded to Reuters’ request for comment.

The FSB mentioned that during the operation, they obtained information that allowed Russian forces to strike the Ozerne airfield in northwestern Ukraine. The specific timings of the operation and the strikes on the Ozerne airfield in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr region remain unclear.

Air Raid Alerts and Unconfirmed Reports

The Zhytomyr region experienced air raid alerts early on Monday. Unofficial reports on social media, including the Telegram messaging app, indicated explosions in Zhytomyr. However, Reuters could not verify these reports.

This alleged incident underscores the ongoing tensions and complex intelligence operations between Russia and Ukraine. The FSB’s claims highlight the intricate and high-stakes nature of their conflict.

With inputs from Reuters