Budanov hints at Ukraine's involvement in liquidation of Kremlin's henchmen, assesses Russia's ability to withstand Ukrainian offensive

Budanov said this in an interview with the Rizni Ludy (Different people) Youtube project.

"We have already reached many people. There are media, public cases that become "public domain," as they say," he emphasized.

At the same time, the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine warned that he would not give specific examples.

"If you are asking me about specific individuals, then I have to answer you as the world's intelligence services classically answer: we cannot comment on this situation, confirm or deny it," Budanov added.

The intelligence chief also commented on the enemy's potential: "It is absolutely exhausted." 

However, Russian troops have the potential for defense, he added. 

"They have built a defense that is echeloned, correct, and powerful. But this is no longer the Russian army that could conduct serious offensive operations," Budanov said.

According to the intelligence officer, the enemy group directly involved in hostilities on the territory of Ukraine consists of approximately 370,000 military personnel, more than 20,000  National Guard troops and approximately 7,000 of various types of paramilitary units, including PMCs and volunteers.

• The advance of Ukrainian troops in the Bakhmut sector is the first success of the offensive, said Land Forces Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi.  

• Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said that Ukrainian troops in the north and south of the Bakhmut suburbs have already liberated about 20 square kilometers of territory.