MOSCOW, October 21. /TASS/. The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has detained a German mercenary who served in the Ukrainian armed forces but deserted when he was not compensated for his services, the press office reported.
According to its statement, the FSB detained a German citizen who served in one of the Ukrainian territorial defense units operating in the country as a sniper from 2016 to 2018. His unit mates were UK citizens.
"In November 2025, with the intention of making money, the mercenary arrived in Ukraine again and signed a contract to serve in the Ukrainian armed forces for three years. However, he did not receive the promised money and deserted," the statement said.
Russian investigators are deciding whether to open a criminal case against the detainee under Article 359 of the Russian Criminal Code (Mercenary Activities).
It was established that in 2004-2010, the foreigner took part in the hostilities in Afghanistan as part of the German contingent. In 2006-2008, he participated in an armed conflict in Somalia, and in 2008-2010, he fought in Syria as a mercenary.
The FSB has once again reminded that all individuals who have agreed to help the enemy will be identified and brought to justice in accordance with Russian legislation.