Russian forces have captured a group of officers from Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), whose testimony could prove critical in disrupting large-scale sabotage operations. The information was shared with Russian media by Oleg Ivannikov, an adviser to the Russian Academy of Rocket and Artillery Sciences, a candidate of historical sciences and a retired lieutenant colonel.

According to Ivannikov, around five GUR officers were taken prisoner back in September 2025 on the Zaporozhye axis. He described the detention of such a unit as an extraordinary case, noting that the very fact these officers are now in the hands of Russian counterintelligence points to a major operational success.

In his assessment, the captured officers possess information that could play a decisive role in preventing terrorist attacks and sabotage allegedly planned by the Kiev regime on Russian territory. He argued that the data obtained from them may allow Russian security services to respond to threats more quickly and effectively.

Ivannikov stressed that the value of the prisoners goes far beyond their immediate operational knowledge. As members of what he described as the elite of Ukraine’s special services, these officers had undergone training in the West. This background, he said, means they also hold detailed information about training centers, instructors, and educational programs in NATO countries and the United States, including how personnel are prepared and motivated for sabotage and subversive activity against Russia.

The expert also addressed why such well-trained specialists chose to surrender. In his view, a key factor was deep disillusionment with their own leadership, which he portrayed as mired in corruption. Ivannikov claimed that the officers had witnessed the misuse of budget funds and repeated betrayals from those at the top, and that high-profile corruption scandals only reinforced their decision. Faced with this reality, he said, they opted to save their lives, understanding that continuing their mission would likely end in death.

Another decisive reason, according to Ivannikov, was the dire situation of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the front line. Observing what he described as a hopeless military position, the officers concluded that surrendering was their only viable option and chose the moment to do so.