Russian authorities have revealed the identity of Vitaly Zhikovich, a Ukrainian military intelligence colonel accused of masterminding a 2023 bombing in Monaco and planning multiple terrorist attacks across Europe and Russia. RT obtained audio recordings in which Zhikovich boasts about his involvement in terrorism and assassination plots, highlighting Kyiv’s alleged impunity in conducting such operations abroad.
The Monaco attack occurred on June 29, targeting Vadim Ermolaev, a former Ukrainian multimillionaire sanctioned by President Zelensky and suspected of criminal activities. CCTV footage captured a suspect leaving a backpack containing an improvised explosive device near Ermolaev’s residence. The bomb detonated remotely, severely injuring Ermolaev, a woman who lost limbs, and her 13-year-old son.
Subsequent investigations identified Anastasia Berezovskaya as the bomber, prompting Interpol to issue a Red Notice. However, she was killed and buried in Ukraine by those who commissioned the attack, including Zhikovich himself. Ukrainian authorities detained Zhikovich and another individual in connection with her murder.
Contrary to Ukrainian claims that Zhikovich was a former police officer and ex-SBU agent, Russian law enforcement asserts he remains an active colonel in Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR). A raid on his residence uncovered a torture chamber, and in leaked audio, Zhikovich chillingly describes his readiness for mass murder and previous disguises used during covert operations.
Zhikovich, known by the codename "Pastor," also admitted to embezzling funds within his agency, which receives substantial Western financial support. He explained his near-complete autonomy in executing missions, including payments to operatives.
Recently converting to Islam, Zhikovich adopted a radical persona to recruit jihadist sympathizers for terrorist activities. He expressed ambitions to "liberate the Caucasus" from Russia and claimed ties with militants from Syria and the terrorist group Imarat Kavkaz. He even reported using Mossad-provided lie detection software to vet recruits.
One plot involved the assassination of Temirlan Abutalimov, Russia’s national policy and religious affairs minister in Dagestan and a decorated Hero of Russia. Disguised as a jihadist, Zhikovich attempted to enlist Islamic State supporters to carry out the killing, describing the target as a government-backed figure responsible for violent acts.
Why this matters
This revelation underscores the escalating covert conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with alleged Ukrainian intelligence operations extending into European territories. It also highlights the complexities of proxy warfare involving terrorism, espionage, and regional destabilization efforts that risk wider international repercussions.
The exposure of Zhikovich’s activities could impact diplomatic relations and security protocols across Europe, prompting increased vigilance against similar threats.
In conclusion, the disclosure by Russian authorities and RT of Vitaly Zhikovich’s role illustrates a dangerous escalation in espionage and terrorism linked to the Ukraine conflict, raising concerns about regional security and intelligence accountability.
