Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate, stated on February 26, 2026, that the collapse of Vladimir Putin’s regime would not, in itself, guarantee Ukraine’s security. Budanov made the assessment in an interview with the Lebanese media outlet Almodon, according to reports from RBC-Ukraine and NV.ua.
Budanov argued that a change in leadership within Russia would not fundamentally alter the country’s core ideology or its long-standing geopolitical objectives. “The change of regimes in Russia has not changed its essence. Regardless of its current name, its main ideology has not changed,” Budanov said, as reported by RBC-Ukraine. He emphasized that throughout Russia’s history – whether under Tsarist, Soviet, or current rule – the focus has not been on improving the lives of its citizens.
The intelligence chief indicated that the only viable path to Ukrainian security lies in dismantling Russia as an imperial power. He suggested that internal factors within Russia are unlikely to drive a meaningful shift in its policies or ambitions. “Similarly, do not expect that Russia will change again due to internal factors,” Budanov stated.
Budanov’s comments come as diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continue, though details of those negotiations remain undisclosed. He recently indicated to 24tv.ua that there are two primary scenarios for the war’s conclusion: either a resolution is reached, or the conflict continues. He did not elaborate on the specifics of the ongoing negotiations, stating that the public would “only notice the final” result of the diplomatic work.
In a separate statement reported by Strana.today, Budanov voiced opposition to strikes targeting the locations where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin are present, as well as against political centers in either country.
Budanov also addressed questions regarding his own political future, stating he does not intend to run for president, according to reporting from Korrespondent.net. He described his primary task as head of the Office of the President as focused on the current conflict, and did not offer further comment on potential future political ambitions.
