www.antena3.ro/externe/politico-oamenii-de-unica-f

Russian influence networks are increasingly recruiting civilians from attacked countries for sabotage operations, often leaving them vulnerable to capture. These individuals, motivated by money, perform tasks ranging from simple deliveries to dangerous missions, often unaware of the full scope of their involvement. The GRU has turned to intermediaries and messaging apps like Telegram for recruitment, especially after the Ukraine invasion. A case study involves Vasilij Kovacs, a Ukrainian citizen arrested in Latvia for allegedly planning terrorist acts. Kovacs claims he was unaware of the true nature of his task, which involved transporting modified massage pillows that concealed explosive devices. Investigations reveal a complex web of recruitment and operations across Europe, highlighting the precarious position of these recruited agents.