Ukraine reportedly executed a deceptive strategy involving a phony attack aimed at one of Russia’s adversaries, who had allied with Ukrainian forces. The plan was to lure the Kremlin into paying a $500,000 bounty, funds which were intended to support the ongoing war effort.
The individual claimed to have been killed on December 27 was Denis Kapustin, more commonly known as “White Rex.” He leads the right-wing Russian volunteer forces that are working to oust Vladimir Putin, as per Metro UK’s report.
However, it turns out that Kapustin is alive, despite claims from the Ukrainian military last week asserting that he was eliminated by an FPV drone in the southern Zaporizhzhya area.
“We will definitely take revenge on you, Dennis. Your legacy will live on,” remarked the RVC Group on Telegram last week.
Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Service (GUR) confirmed on Thursday that this operation was actually aimed at preserving Kapustin’s life while also collecting a hefty reward in the process.
General Kirillo Budanov, who heads Ukraine’s military intelligence, congratulated Kapustin and his associates on their clever maneuver. He noted, “Welcome to normal life,” as reported by Australian news site News.com.au.
In the wake of Russia’s invasion in 2022, Kapustin formed the RVC to collaborate with the Ukrainian army. This group has been labeled a terrorist organization in Russia, infamous for conducting cross-border strikes into regions like Belgorod and Kursk. Notably, he has faced life sentences in absentia in Russian courts.
In March 2024, the RVC engaged in a skirmish within Russia, capturing Russian troops after clashes with security personnel.
As ongoing peace talks continue between Ukraine and Russia, the issue of territorial disputes remains a considerable hurdle, albeit a deal appears to be on the horizon, possibly facilitated by President Donald Trump.
