The head of the Russian FSB (Federal Security Service), Alexander Bortnikov, has bolstered the Kremlin's unfounded and clichéd narrative, which accuses Ukraine and NATO of organizing terrorist attacks and sabotage on Russian territory. In this way, Moscow seeks to undermine Western support for Ukraine, according to a report by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Analysts note that on June 11, during a meeting of the Russian Anti-Terrorism Committee, Bortnikov stated that Ukraine, with the support of the US and NATO, is increasing efforts regarding terrorist attacks and sabotage on Russian territory. Additionally, he falsely accused Ukrainian intelligence of involvement in the events of March 22 (referring to the attack on Crocus City Hall).
According to ISW assessments, this attack was organized by a unit of the Islamic State in Afghanistan, ISIL-K, and there is no evidence that Ukraine was involved in any capacity.
Analysts explain Moscow's actions as follows. In their view, the Kremlin regularly uses accusations of terrorism against Ukraine and the West to undermine Western support for Ukraine and to portray itself as a victim of Western and Ukrainian aggression.
According to the Institute for the Study of War, Belarusian officials, including self-proclaimed President Alexander Lukashenko, are involved in the Russian campaign to deport Ukrainian children.