Is the general a traitor? Former Russian commander is suspected of transferring secret data to Ukraine

The Investigative Committee of Russia has begun an investigation into a statement of treason in connection with the alleged leak of secret data to Ukraine in the case of the former commander of the 58th Army, Major General Ivan Popov. This was reported by the general’s lawyer Sergei Buinovsky. The check was prompted by suspicions that secret documents were in the possession of Ukrainian security forces, which may indicate espionage and treason.

Lawyer's statement and start of the investigation

Lawyer Sergei Buinovsky said that the Investigative Committee of Russia has begun an investigation into his statement about possible treason and espionage on the part of employees of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The lawyer asked the investigators to conduct an investigation into whether unnamed citizens of the Russian Federation had committed high treason and espionage by Ukrainian security forces, who were in possession of secret Russian documents.

The Investigative Committee is considering the possibility of initiating a criminal case based on the results of the inspection. “Currently, investigators are conducting an investigation into these facts, the results of which will be known according to procedural deadlines,” the lawyer said. The audit is aimed at clarifying the circumstances under which secret data could have reached the Ukrainian authorities and identifying the persons involved in the leak of information.

The case of General Ivan Popov

Ivan Popov was arrested on May 17 on charges of fraud. According to investigators, he was involved in the theft of more than 1 tons of rolled metal products purchased by the military-civil administration of the Zaporozhye region in 700 as part of the provision of humanitarian aid. These materials were intended for equipping engineering defensive structures on the line of combat contact. Investigative actions in the case have already been completed, and Popov has been charged in the final version, which also includes official forgery.

General Popov denies all accusations against him, insisting on his innocence. The general’s defense believes that his prosecution in Ukraine is illegal, and appealed to the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation with a request to open a case against employees of the SBU and the Kharkov Regional Prosecutor’s Office.

Suspicions of espionage and treason

Suspicions of espionage and high treason raise serious concerns, since the leak of classified data could cause significant damage to Russia's national security. If secret documents actually ended up in the possession of the Ukrainian security forces, this may indicate the presence of persons inside Russia who are transmitting information to the enemy. This situation requires a thorough investigation and identification of all persons involved in the leak.

The Investigative Committee is considering several possible scenarios for information leaks. One of them suggests the presence of traitors within the Russian army or intelligence services who could transfer secret data to the Ukrainian side. Another option involves the possibility of hacking into computer systems and stealing information through cyber attacks. Both versions require careful verification and analysis.