Ivashchenko dismisses Budanov’s people from the DIU: Media report tension between security officials

Ivashchenko dismisses Budanov’s people from the DIU: Media report tension between security officials

Head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence Oleh Ivashchenko is attempting to weaken the influence of his predecessor Kyrylo Budanov on the DIU’s operations by dismissing people connected to him. At the same time, according to sources, Ivashchenko coordinates operational matters with acting SSU chief Oleksandr Poklad.

This was reported to Ukrainska Pravda by sources within the security services.

According to the outlet, after Kyrylo Budanov took charge of the Presidential Office, Ivashchenko has sought to minimize Budanov’s influence over the DIU. One source claims the new intelligence chief has already removed a significant number of Budanov’s associates from their posts.

“Ivashchenko has dismissed many of Kyrylo’s people,” the source told Ukrainska Pravda.

At the same time, Ivashchenko is reportedly working closely with acting SSU head Oleksandr Poklad. According to one influential law-enforcement source, Poklad may be informing Ivashchenko about DIU personnel he considers to be in a “risk group.”

“Poklad informs Ivashchenko that certain DIU employees may be in a ‘risk group.’ Ivashchenko listens and acts quickly,” the source said.

Against this backdrop, Ukrainska Pravda reports, tensions are rising between Budanov and Poklad, who have never had friendly relations.

Sources on Bankova Street say Budanov even threatened President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with resignation from the post of head of the Presidential Office if Zelenskyy submits Poklad’s candidacy for SSU chief to the Verkhovna Rada.