Ukraine's Defense Intelligence has reported the discovery of a secret military biological laboratory on Lisy Island in russia's Tver region, alleging that the facility is being used to conduct experiments involving dangerous viruses and other pathogens.
The facility is officially known as the Center for Experimental Physiology. The intelligence agency says the complex is located on an island in the Vyshnevolotsk Reservoir and was established by the russian state under the cover of veterinary and physiological research.
Read more: russian Forces Receive More Pantsir Air Defense Systems, Hypersonic Missiles to Try Shoot Down Ukrainian UAVs, But...
The facility's actual purpose is connected to the russian military. The agency alleges that researchers at the site conduct experiments with viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens in the interests of the Armed Forces of russia.
The location of the facility has also raised concerns over potential environmental risks. The Vyshnevolotsk Reservoir supplies fresh water to several settlements, including the city of Vyshny Volochyok, while the Tvertsa River originates from the reservoir before eventually flowing into the Volga River.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, an accidental release of dangerous pathogens or chemicals from the facility could therefore have consequences extending beyond the immediate area. Ukraine's Defense Intelligence warned that contamination of the reservoir could potentially threaten local communities and create a wider public-health emergency.
The intelligence agency also linked the allegations to a livestock disease outbreak reported in russia in spring 2026. Russian authorities attempted to conceal the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease among cattle from both the international community and the russian population.
Some such outbreaks could potentially be connected to unsuccessful experiments involving viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. However, the agency did not provide evidence establishing a direct link between the reported livestock outbreak and the facility on Lisy Island.
Read more: Ukrainian Pelican Radar Tracks Drones and Missiles at 400 km (Video)
