Spy in the highest echelons: how a Russian agent compromised the defense of Kherson region

“Russians knew everything” – that’s how the actions of the traitor working for the enemy intelligence are described. Oleh Kulinich, former head of the Main Directorate of the SBU in Crimea, is now a key figure in the investigation of state treason. He is suspected of passing secret information about the defense positions of the southern borders of Ukraine. According to the investigation, Kulinich had prior cooperation with the FSB, using his position to thoroughly prepare the enemy for invasion.

Training under the spy’s nose

On February 12, 2022 – just two weeks before the full-scale invasion began – Kulinich participated in training for the defense of the Kherson region. Alongside President Zelensky, he personally observed the rehearsal of defense strategies. Within the framework of counterterrorism training, the SBU discussed and tested defense tactics, studied the region’s peculiarities, and possible enemy actions. Being in a key position, Kulinich had access to all information about defense plans. This allowed him to provide the enemy intelligence with the most detailed information about our positions, readiness to respond, and military capabilities.

“The enemy acted without hesitation”

Investigators claim that thanks to Kulinich, the enemy literally had a map of our actions. They knew about the military deployment, combat readiness of units, and other crucial details. This significantly facilitated the task for Russian forces, who knew in advance where and how to breach the defense. This information advantage allowed Russia to act confidently and swiftly – and as practice showed, dealt a painful blow to Ukrainian defense.

“Kotyhoroshko “and political office in Moscow

According to the investigation, Kulynych used the pseudonym “Kotyhoroshko” and collaborated with Russian special services. His curator was none other than former Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Volodymyr Sivkovich, who alongside Andriy Klyuyev, established the so-called “political office” in Moscow. This office became the center for coordinating operations aimed at destabilizing Ukraine. They provided agents with resources and information, which became the basis for future Kremlin actions.

Placement of “own” and incitement to treason

In addition to providing information, Kulynych was also involved in introducing pro-Russian personnel into law enforcement agencies in Ukraine. He presumably worked on creating a network of individuals who would serve Russia, undermining the country’s defense from within. His activities included attempts to incite citizens to commit treason, thus weakening internal resistance.

Consequences for the traitor

Kulynych has been charged with five articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, including treason. He faces up to 15 years in prison. Currently, he is in custody, and Ukraine continues to cleanse its ranks from traitors who tried to undermine it from within during one of the most challenging moments in modern history.

This story serves as a reminder that even at the highest positions, there may be enemies who cause irreparable harm to the country. Today, it is important for Ukraine not only to defeat external aggressors but also to track and neutralize traitors who jeopardize national security.