Ukraine announced that it had foiled the plot to assassinate a series of high-ranking officials

“Ukraine and Moldova law enforcement forces have destroyed an organized gang that was preparing to carry out contract assassinations against Ukrainian citizens and prominent foreigners,” Ukraine’s chief prosecutor Ruslan Kravchenko said on February 20.

According to Mr. Kravchenko, Ukrainian authorities conducted 20 searches in the country, confiscating money, weapons, explosives and “communication documents with the Russian coordinator.” 7 suspects were arrested in Ukraine, three suspects, including the alleged ringleader, were arrested in Moldova.

Kiev named one of the targeted officials as Andriy Yusov, spokesman for the General Directorate of Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, who coordinated prisoner exchanges with Russia.

“The Russian side promised to pay the suspects up to 100,000 USD. The reward depends on the target’s popularity and influence,” Mr. Kravchenko added.

Moldova previously confirmed its participation in a joint investigation with Ukraine into a plot to “kill a number of public figures” in the neighboring country.

Russia has not commented on the information.

Moscow also accused Kiev of being behind the assassinations of high-ranking Russian officials in its territory and newly annexed areas. Ukraine publicly admitted to being involved in a number of assassinations, saying they were retaliation against supporters of Russia’s campaign.