Russian authorities have detained four teenagers, aged 15 to 16, on suspicion of planning a “terrorist” attack in Yekaterinburg, according to reports from state news agencies on Saturday.
The Federal Security Service (FSB) claims the group intended to deploy homemade explosive devices in crowded locations within the city. The motives behind the alleged plot remain unclear.
Additionally, two members of the group face accusations of setting a police vehicle ablaze. A video released by the TASS news agency reportedly shows one suspect admitting to the arson, stating that they were influenced by “neo-Nazi channels on Telegram.” The individual added, “I read in the same channels that acts against the police are necessary.”
The arrests come amid increasing domestic security challenges in Russia, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Kremlin has redirected significant resources to clamp down on individuals suspected of collaborating with Ukraine.
Since the beginning of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, the nation has faced a series of arson attacks, which authorities attribute to Kyiv, along with fatal assaults by alleged Islamist groups.
