All articles tagged with #spy chief
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has forced out Vasyl Malyuk, the head of Ukraine's Security Service, despite his successful behind-the-lines operations against Russia, and reassigned him to focus on unconventional warfare, amid political and strategic uncertainties.
Blaise Metreweli, the first female head of MI6, warns that the UK faces a pervasive threat from Russia and other hostile actors, emphasizing the importance of technological mastery and human agency in national security amidst a complex, tech-mediated threat landscape.
The former head of Germany's domestic intelligence agency is under investigation for suspected rightwing extremism, as authorities search his home and office. The probe comes amid growing concerns about the infiltration of security services by far-right elements, prompting calls for a thorough review of the country's national security apparatus.
Marianna Budanova, the wife of Ukraine's spy chief Lt Gen Kyrylo Budanov, is being treated in hospital for suspected poisoning with heavy metals. The Ukrainian intelligence source confirmed the incident but did not provide further details. Several other intelligence officials were also reportedly poisoned, but there is no indication that Gen Budanov was targeted. The type of heavy metal used in the poisoning has not been disclosed, but it is said to be unrelated to everyday life or military operations. Mrs Budanova is now completing a course of treatment and is said to be feeling better.
Ukraine's spy chief, Kyrylo Budanov, revealed that despite many of their naval attack drones being destroyed by Russia, they have successfully paralyzed Russia's Black Sea Fleet. One drone even forced Russia's Admiral Essen warship into dock for months for repairs. Budanov emphasized that although the drones were a highly effective deterrent, he did not provide an exact figure on the number being used. He also highlighted that Ukraine's maritime drones, which are now being manufactured at scale, have caused significant damage to Russian ships, showcasing the technological superiority of Ukraine's equipment over Russia's outdated 20th-century technology.
Serbia's president claims that the real reason behind the US sanctions imposed on the country's intelligence chief, Aleksandar Vulin, is his pro-Russian stance rather than corruption allegations. The US accuses Vulin of involvement in illegal arms shipments, drug trafficking, and misuse of public office. Serbia, a candidate for EU membership, has maintained friendly relations with Moscow, and Vulin's appointment as spy chief last year was seen as a reflection of this pro-Russian stance. The US State Department spokesperson emphasized the need to hold accountable those who advance Russia's activities in Serbia and the Western Balkans.