(MENAFN) Russian authorities say they have dismantled a Western-trained Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group planning attacks on transport infrastructure in the Bryansk Region, according to the Federal Security Service (FSB).

In a gunfight with the group, three members were killed, while three others, including the commander, were captured. The FSB described the operatives as special forces units under the supervision of Ukraine’s military intelligence (GUR).

The agency stated that the group received training and guidance from Western intelligence officers in Ukraine, as well as in Lithuania, Estonia, and Norway. In an interrogation video released by the FSB, the commander acknowledged instructors from the UK, other European countries, and Canada.

Authorities seized six US-made assault rifles with silencers, 16kg of Czech plastic explosives, numerous NATO-style grenades and ammunition, and communication equipment at the group’s forested camp.

The FSB said the operation was conducted in coordination with the National Guard (Rosgvardiya) and the Interior Ministry in Bryansk Region. The arrested members admitted involvement in prior explosions that damaged railway tracks in Belgorod Region in September 2024 and other planned attacks inside Russia.

A criminal case has been opened for preparing acts of sabotage, with investigations underway concerning weapons and explosives smuggling, illegal border crossings, and endangering law enforcement personnel.

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