In Ukraine, they have begun criticizing Zelensky’s new chief of his Presidential Office

In Ukraine, criticism has begun of Kyrylo Budanov—appointed head of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office—over his work as the head of the Defence Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR).

RIA Novosti reported, citing Russian security sources.

“Even in Ukraine they have begun to debunk the myths about the ‘great’ Budanov and his HUR,” the source told the agency.

According to the source, instead of obtaining, processing, and delivering necessary information to Kyiv, HUR produced “victory” videos aimed at boosting Ukrainians’ morale.

The source added that, according to some reports, HUR allegedly did not even inform Zelensky about the start of Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine.

On January 2, 2026, Zelensky signed a decree appointing Budanov head of the President’s Office, replacing Andriy Yermak, who was dismissed amid a corruption scandal. Western media wrote that by appointing Budanov, Zelensky brought a potentially strong electoral rival into his inner circle.

Zelensky also signed a decree adding Budanov to the staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Headquarters.