A virtual meeting involving approximately 50 Russian Defense Ministry officials and representatives from defense plants was disrupted when a Ukrainian prankster gained access and addressed the attendees. The individual, identified as Yevhen Volnov, posed as a pro-war participant and issued a warning that Ukrainian intelligence was monitoring them.
During the session, which reportedly focused on budget allocations for military supplies, Volnov questioned the availability of funds for electronic warfare systems. He stated, "The SBU [Ukrainian intelligence] is watching and will come for every one of you. Get ready. We have information on all of you." He further warned the officials, "You are all accomplices of the regime and will answer for its crimes, whatever positions you hold."
Volnov also claimed that Ukrainian drones could reach Russian defense industry sites, implying potential future attacks. "Ukrainian drones are already reaching all our factories," he stated, adding, "Or will it end with a drone strike, followed by prison for failing to meet deadlines?"
In response to the intrusion, Russian officials expressed confusion and anger. One participant questioned, "Colleagues, that is a rather strange question ě….", while another demanded, "Who is this provocateur?" Volnov retorted that he was not a provocateur and reiterated his claims about collected information on the attendees. He also accused them of being complicit in the "blood of innocent people, children and women."
As the meeting participants attempted to disconnect, Volnov continued to press them, demanding they stop "stammering and bleating." The call ended abruptly after another official asked, "Who is that idiot?" and declared, "That is it, the meeting is over."
Following the incident, Volnov, whose real name is Mykyta Kuvikov, described the event as an interruption of a "corruption session" and stated that the broadcast allowed for the identification of officials and companies involved. He is known as a Ukrainian prankster and information-war activist who utilizes impersonation and social engineering tactics. He also co-manages DrukArmy, a network focused on 3D printing for military purposes.
Volnov expressed that the pranksters were able to "fully identify every official and uncover every company involved." He claimed that the officials faced the prospect of imprisonment at home and retribution from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) after the war. He further stated, "It is too late to hide, you scum. We see every meeting you hold, record every frightened face and know every account where you hide your stolen money."