Budanov discusses GUR's part in Chernyshov's restoration: We'll carry out actions beneficial for the nation
In an interview, the Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense (GUR) Kyrylo Budanov was asked about the role of his agency in the return of Vice-Premier Oleksiy Chernyshov. However, Budanov did not provide a direct answer to the question.
According to sources, the task of bringing Chernyshov back from abroad was assigned to the GUR by President Zelenskyy. The GUR played a facilitative role in Chernyshov's return, reportedly ensuring his protection from arrest upon arrival. This coordination allowed Chernyshov to return safely from an EU trip on June 22, 2025, with the intention to continue working in government despite ongoing charges against him.
Chernyshov, a close associate of President Zelenskyy, was charged by Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO shortly before and after his return. The security and intelligence services, including GUR, appear to have ensured his protection from arrest, reflecting his political alignment and value to the President’s team during a period of significant government reshuffling and internal political tensions under martial law.
The interview conducted by Natalia Moseychuk did not delve into the specific reasons for Chernyshov's return to Ukraine. Budanov stated that a lot is written about the GUR and that he often appears as the leader in their actions. He described his role in decision-making processes as that of a statesman, and mentioned the existence of normative legal acts and legislation.
Upon Chernyshov's arrival at the Ukrainian border, he was met by employees of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and GUR. The goal of these agencies was to prevent Chernyshov from ending up in a detention center. They were tasked with ensuring that Chernyshov would not be arrested by NABU detectives or prosecutors of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) upon entering Ukraine.
Budanov also emphasized that the GUR will do everything that is good for the state. He stated that they will not do anything that brings harm. The details of Chernyshov's return were not discussed in the interview, and the interview did not reveal any new information about Oleksiy Chernyshov's current status or position.
The context of this incident includes a broader crackdown by anti-corruption bodies on prominent officials linked to the President. Yet, with the State’s intelligence apparatus enabling the safe return of some such figures like Chernyshov, it suggests internal executive-branch dynamics and control over law enforcement responses. This suggests GUR’s involvement was instrumental in avoiding immediate legal consequences for Chernyshov, consistent with the presidential directives amidst the politically sensitive environment.
The GUR, under the policy-and-legislation framework, played a significant role in the return of Vice-Premier Oleksiy Chernyshov, underlining the intersection of politics and general news. Chernyshov's safe return, despite ongoing charges against him, was facilitated by the GUR, reflecting the complex dynamics of politics and law enforcement within the Ukrainian government.
