Kyiv, Ukraine, Jan 2, 2026 (AFP) - Budanov: Enigmatic spy chief set to become Zelensky's top aide

NAMPA / AFP

2026-01-02

Kyrylo Budanov, set to become Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's new chief of staff, is a secretive figure who rose from relative obscurity to become head of Kyiv's formidable spy agency. Referred to as the man "without a smile" in Ukrainian media, the 39-year-old has revealed little about his background or personal life, and maintains a low profile. But he is credited with some of Kyiv's most audacious attacks inside Russia and occupied Uk......

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