Kyrylo Budanov, the Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, has shed light on his direct participation in combat operations, emphasizing that his involvement was intended to boost the morale of Ukrainian defenders.

Budanov actively participated in a special operation aimed at liberating the town of Ruska Lozova in the Kharkiv Oblast towards the end of April 2022.

Speaking in an interview with Dmytro Komarov, Budanov stated plainly, “Sometimes it’s necessary (to be present in combat – ed.). Because we are all human. And sometimes, everyone gets scared. Sometimes I find ways to do it (boost the fighters’ spirits – ed.).”

When asked whether it is justifiable to risk the head of intelligence during combat actions, Budanov dismissed the question as “purely rhetorical.” He added, “If it yields a positive result, then it was done correctly. If there is no positive result, then there were mistakes. Winners are not judged.”

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