# Russian recruitment for intelligence and sabotage > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/russian-recruitment-for-intelligence-and-sabotage > Updated: 2026-09-20T15:27:25.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Authorities in Moldova and Ukraine have reported patterns of Russian recruitment efforts conducted via Telegram to facilitate intelligence and sabotage activities. In Moldova, the Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) noted an increase in citizens being recruited for reconnaissance tasks, such as photographing infrastructure, in exchange for approximately 50 euros. These activities are suspected to be preparations for future actions in Ukraine. Additionally, Moldovan officials have observed Russian-controlled media outlets disseminating propaganda critical of the government and European Union integration. In Ukraine, security services have identified recruitment targeting vulnerable teenagers for sabotage operations. In one instance, a 16-year-old was recruited to set fire to railway equipment and later offered roughly $1,430 to transport an explosive device. Ukrainian officials noted that many recruits are driven by financial desperation resulting from the ongoing war. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-20: Ukraine reports Russian recruitment of teenagers for sabotage Russian operatives are recruiting vulnerable Ukrainian teenagers via Telegram to conduct sabotage, including railway attacks and explosive deployments, according to authorities in Kremenchuk. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ukraine-reports-russian-recruitment-of-teenagers-for-sabotage ### 2026-09-03: Moldova reports increase in citizens recruited for Russian reconnaissance tasks Moldovan intelligence warns that citizens are being recruited via Telegram for Russian-directed reconnaissance tasks in Ukraine, while Russian-controlled media intensifies local propaganda. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-reports-increase-in-citizens-recruited-for-russian-reconnaissance-tasks --- Cite as: Russian recruitment for intelligence and sabotage. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/russian-recruitment-for-intelligence-and-sabotage