What's happened
Russian far-right nationalist Denis Kapustin, leader of the Russian Volunteer Corps, was reported killed in a drone strike but was later confirmed alive after Ukrainian counterintelligence thwarted an alleged Russian plot to assassinate him. The story highlights ongoing covert conflicts in Ukraine and Russia.
What's behind the headline?
The conflicting reports about Kapustin's death reveal the complex nature of modern hybrid warfare. The Russian claim of his death was quickly challenged by Ukrainian and Russian Volunteer Corps sources, who confirmed he is alive. This incident underscores the ongoing covert struggle between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed groups, with each side employing disinformation and counterintelligence tactics. The Ukrainian GUR's successful thwarting of the assassination plot demonstrates the effectiveness of their intelligence operations, while Russia's initial claim of his death may serve to demoralize or mislead. The continued presence of Kapustin and his group in Ukraine signifies persistent threats to Russian and Ukrainian security, with potential implications for escalation and international involvement. The story also highlights the blurred lines between combatants and terrorists in this conflict, complicating diplomatic and military responses. The next steps will likely involve intensified covert operations and propaganda efforts, with the risk of escalation into broader conflict if miscalculations occur.
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports that the Russian security services ordered the assassination of Kapustin, with Ukrainian officials successfully thwarting the plot, and Ukrainian intelligence chief Kirill Budanov publicly congratulating Kapustin on surviving. Conversely, the NY Post initially reported Kapustin's death in a drone strike, citing his death during a combat mission, but subsequent Ukrainian confirmation clarified he is alive. The contrasting narratives reflect the information warfare surrounding his figure, with Russia aiming to portray him as eliminated and Ukraine emphasizing his resilience. Both sources agree on his significance as a symbol of resistance and a target for Russian intelligence, but differ in their portrayal of his current status. This divergence underscores the broader strategic contest between Russia and Ukraine, with each side seeking to shape perceptions and morale.
How we got here
Kapustin, also known as Nikitin and White Rex, moved from Moscow to Ukraine in 2017. He founded the Russian Volunteer Corps, which opposes Putin's regime and has conducted cross-border raids into Russia. Russia designated him a terrorist in 2023, and he has been banned from Schengen countries since 2019. The recent events follow a series of incursions and targeted attacks linked to his group.
Go deeper
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Denis Kapustin may refer to:
Denis Kapustin (athlete), Russian and Soviet Olympic triple jumper
Denis Kapustin (militant), founder and leader of the Russian Volunteer Corps