The SBU has blocked over 1,000 Starlink satellites intended for Russia: how the scheme worked
In Dnipro, the SBU’s military counter-intelligence unit detained a man originally from the Luhansk region who is suspected of organising a large-scale Starlink verification scheme for Russia.
According to the investigation, the man came across an offer of ‘easy money’ on Telegram. A Russian handler provided him with details, which the suspect initially used to register a single terminal in his own name.
He was subsequently instructed to recruit as many people as possible into the scheme. To do this, the man used the details of front men and registered the terminals at postal operators’ branches.
The SBU claims that, in this way, the suspect verified over 1,000 satellite communication systems for the Russian side. During a search, a smartphone was seized from him which, according to the investigation, contains evidence of communication with the handler.
The man has been charged under Part 1 of Article 111-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – aiding an aggressor state. If found guilty, he faces up to 12 years’ imprisonment.
How a further 76 Starlink systems were registered in Kyiv
In a separate case, the SBU detained two local unemployed men in Kyiv. According to the investigation, they were also looking for work on Telegram, where they were recruited by representatives of the Russian FSB.
Initially, the men registered the terminals using their own personal details, and then passed on the login credentials for the equipment to their Russian handler.
Subsequently, the suspects began using forged Ukrainian passports. To pass the verification checks, according to the SBU, they secretly enlisted the help of an employee at one of the post offices, who assisted them in circumventing the established verification rules.
In this way, the suspects registered 76 Starlink terminals. During searches, mobile phones were seized from them, which the investigation considers to be evidence of collaboration with the FSB.
Both men have been charged under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – treason committed under martial law. They are currently in custody, and the penalty under this article provides for imprisonment for up to life, with confiscation of property.
Why does Russia need Starlink terminals registered in Ukraine?
According to the SBU, the Russian military planned to use access to the terminals for communications, to direct missile and drone strikes, and to locate Ukrainian electronic warfare equipment near frontline positions.
Ukraine has introduced Starlink verification to distinguish authorised terminals from equipment used by Russian troops. Devices included on SpaceX’s so-called ‘whitelist’ continue to operate, whilst terminals belonging to the occupying forces are blocked.
This is precisely why Russia is attempting to register equipment using Ukrainian documents or through individuals who pass verification checks in place of the actual users.
How Russia recruits operatives
The SBU warns that Russian intelligence services most often seek out people via Telegram channels advertising quick or easy money.
Potential recruits may be asked to register Starlink in their own name, provide passport details or undergo a background check ostensibly for the Ukrainian military.
People who have received such offers are advised to report them to the SBU via the “Expose the FSB Agent” chatbot, by calling 1516, or by emailing [email protected].
Follow us on Telegram.
