Media report spy chief Budanov warned of danger to Ukraine without talks by summer, HUR denies

The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (HUR) issued an official statement.

The HUR emphasized that such information, particularly related to defense matters during wartime, "can unfortunately be distorted by certain political figures for their own interests, using journalists for this purpose."

“We emphasize that the spread of any reports about what is allegedly discussed at official meetings with classified information, involving the military and political leadership of the state, harms national security and is exploited by the enemy for their own benefit. Ukraine continues its armed struggle for independence — the war with Russia is ongoing. The information dimension of the war is also of critical importance. We remind you that martial law is in effect across the entire territory of our country,” the HUR emphasized.

Background

Earlier, Ukrayinska Pravda quoted an MP as saying that a recent closed-door meeting in the Verkhovna Rada took place in Kyiv. According to the MP, the leaders of the parliament and factions invited the command of the Defense Forces to the meeting to gain a clearer understanding of the real situation in the war. During the meeting, it was allegedly discussed that the current state of the economy, relations with neighboring countries and partners, as well as the dynamics at the front, raise concerns about the country’s security margin.

"At first, the Ukrainian General Staff reps told a lot of interesting, but complex things. Then came other reports. But Budanov’s response stood out. Someone asked how much time we had left. Kyrylo, with his cold smile, said, ‘If there are no serious negotiations by summer, processes very dangerous for Ukraine's existence may begin,’" the MP shared.

• On January 26, 166 combat clashes took place on the Russian-Ukrainian front. The Pokrovsk direction saw the fiercest fighting, with the Defense Forces repelling 78 Russian attacks.