Russian authorities have reported the arrest of an individual believed to be a potential assassin sent by Ukraine to target Tucker Carlson in Moscow.
The Kremlin has accused Ukrainian intelligence of masterminding the plot, alleging that the suspect, a resident of Podolsk, Russia, was planning to use an explosive device to carry out the assassination during Carlson’s recent visit to interview President Vladimir Putin.
The suspect was apprehended by Russian counter-terrorism units before he could carry out the attack, with officials claiming that he was following orders from Ukraine’s State Intelligence Directorate.
The intended location for the attack was the underground parking lot of the Four Seasons Hotel, where Carlson was staying, indicating that the plan was timed to coincide with his visit to Russia for the interview with Putin from February 1 to February 8.
A Russian was detained who was preparing a terrorist attack to kill Tucker Carlson on instructions from the Ukrainian special services.
On suspicion of preparing a terrorist attack, a native of Podolsk was detained, who, acting on instructions from the State Intelligence… pic.twitter.com/PI6qo5iRmV
— Peacemaker (@peacemaket71) February 26, 2024
The reactions on social media regarding these allegations have been varied, nevertheless.
Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) emphasized the importance of protecting journalists.
This is true and extremely terrifying.
Journalism is a dangerous job but also one of the most important.
We must always protect free speech and a free press.
It’s the only way to protect people from governments https://t.co/uSaWnBr24M
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene?? (@RepMTG) February 26, 2024
Russia claims that the individual in question was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence in November 2023.
According to reports, he was promised a $4,000 reward upon successfully completing the mission.
The veracity of these allegations is uncertain.
There is no independent verification of these claims.
Although it is probable that the suspect intended to harm Carlson, Russia has not presented any evidence to support the claim that he was hired by Ukraine.
In the meantime, Carlson has suggested that he was monitored by U.S. intelligence agencies, specifically the NSA, during his visit to Russia.
He has alleged that this surveillance was an attempt to undermine his interview with Putin, implying a larger narrative of media manipulation and espionage.
However, without concrete evidence, the story of the foiled assassination plot against Carlson in Moscow remains shrouded in speculation.
