FSB Foils Ukrainian Plot to Hijack Russian Fighter Jet with Kinzhal Missile

Russian state news reported that the Federal Security Service (FSB) has foiled a plan by Ukrainian military intelligence to hijack a Kinzhal-armed MiG-31 fighter jet, with the goal of delivering it to NATO’s largest airbase in Constanta, Romania. According to TASS, the Ukrainians were offering Russian pilots $3 million to participate in the operation, which was allegedly supported by British intelligence services. The FSB says it has uncovered and thwarted the plot, which was reportedly constructed over a six-month period. The incident comes as tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, with Russia accusing Ukraine of seeking to provoke a larger conflict. The FSB’s success in foiling the plot may indicate a strengthening of Russian air defense capabilities, but the involvement of British intelligence services raises questions about the extent of Western support for Ukraine’s military efforts. This report is based on information from TASS and Reuters.