SBU Foils Russian Plot to Assassinate Azov Commander Andriy Biletsky

Ukrainian security services have detained a suspected Russian agent accused of preparing a missile and airstrike targeting Brigadier General Andriy Biletsky, commander of the Third Army Corps of the Defense Forces. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) announced the prevention of the assassination attempt on Friday, March 13, 2026.

Details of the Plot

According to the SBU, the suspect was recruited by Russian intelligence to gather information about Biletsky’s movements and potential location in the combat zone . The agent, identified as a drone operator from another brigade deployed in the Kharkiv region, was tasked with collecting intelligence on the timing and location of Biletsky’s visits to frontline positions .

Investigators found that the suspect used his access to internal military data and attempted to obtain classified details from fellow servicemen . He was also allegedly instructed to provide Russia with the locations of his brigade’s headquarters and training center, enabling separate attacks on those facilities .

Biletsky’s Background

Andriy Biletsky has been the commander of the Third Army Corps since March 2025 . He is a prominent figure in Ukrainian military and political circles, having served as a member of the Verkhovna Rada from 2014 to 2019 and founding the National Corps political party in 2015 . The Third Army Corps, created on the basis of the 3rd assault brigade, is considered one of the most combat-ready units of the Ukrainian army .

SBU Response

The SBU stated that its military counterintelligence, with assistance from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces, proactively prevented the assassination attempt . The suspect was detained and his smartphone, used for communication with Russian handlers, was confiscated . He faces a potential life sentence for treason.

Moscow has not yet commented on the allegations .