The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case into the incident and suspects the Ukrainian special services (SSU).

This operation has the hallmarks of the Ukrainian SSU, which has been improving and expanding its capabilities inside Russia, combining local resistance cells with seasoned intelligence cadre.

An international arrest warrant issued by the ICC for war crimes remains active for Russia President Vladimir Putin. An indictment is merely an allegation. Mr. Putin is presumed innocent until proven guilty in an international tribunal to be held for him in the Hague at a future date.