Kyrylo Budanov

Known for his strategic mind and calm demeanor, Budanov has led the Main Directorate of Intelligence since August 2020. He began his service in military intelligence operations following Russia’s initial invasion in 2014 and was wounded during a mission in Donbas. In 2019, he survived an assassination attempt in Kyiv. As the head of the intelligence, he oversees covert operations, long-range drone strikes, and intelligence-driven sabotage.

He played a key role in integrating volunteer formations into the intelligence forces. He was promoted to Lieutenant General in 2023.