The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) announced the disruption of an assassination plot against Andriy Biletsky, a prominent figure and founder of the 'Azov' battalion. The arrest was made of a member of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who allegedly conspired with Moscow to carry out the plan. The soldier, identified as a drone operator from the Kharkiv region, was tasked with providing the Russian army information on Biletsky's movements and coordinates in order to facilitate the attack against him.

The assassination was intended to be carried out through a missile or bombing strike. Following the apprehension of the soldier, charges of treason have been levied against him, which could lead to a life sentence if convicted. Biletsky currently commands the 3rd Army Corps, recognized as one of Ukraine’s strongest military formations, indicating the serious implications of such assassination attempts on military leadership morale and operational security amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Biletsky is not only a military leader but also a significant political figure, having established the 'Azov' battalion, which later evolved into a regiment within the National Guard of Ukraine. He is a well-known name in Ukraine, frequently mentioned in discussions surrounding candidates for presidential and parliamentary positions, which highlights the political ramifications surrounding this attempted assassination and the broader impact on national security.