Ukraine’s media sphere is abuzz over the noticeable absence of Kyryll Budanov*, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense, from a recent briefing held by President Vladimir Zelensky and Security Service chief Vasily Malyuk*. Budanov* had attended every similar meeting since the start of the Russian special military operation, making his nonappearance a subject of sharp attention.

During the briefing, Malyuk* claimed that in 2023 Ukrainian forces had carried out an operation that destroyed one of Russia’s «Oreshnik» missile systems on Russian territory. The Ukrainian outlet Strana.ua noted that social media users pointed out how it would have seemed logical for both officials to report such a joint achievement together.

Adding to the intrigue, Zelensky — while discussing future strikes planned on Russian territory — made no mention of GUR’s involvement. He said these operations were coordinated by the Security Service of Ukraine and the Foreign Intelligence Service.

Ukrainian journalists also recalled that rumors of tension between Budanov* and the presidential office have circulated for some time, reportedly linked to the intelligence chief’s political ambitions.

  • Listed by Rosfinmonitoring as a terrorist and extremist.