'I know more things' - Ukraine’s spy chief hints at US weapons boost for Ukraine
Photo: Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov (rbc.ua)
The United States will continue to support Ukraine. Additional air defense systems may be delivered in the near future. US President Donald Trump is a consistent person and should not be judged based on media portrayals, said Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence head, Kyrylo Budanov, in his interview with Bloomberg.
"Trump’s position is consistent, one should not judge him by media characteristics. As head of a special service, I know more things," Budanov said.
Budanov also added that US support for Ukraine will continue "in the near future." He suggested that Washington may provide additional air defense systems, which Kyiv urgently needs.
The outlet also reminded that on July 8, Trump ordered the resumption of weapons deliveries to Ukraine and sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of mass killings of civilians.
Intelligence cooperation
Budanov also stated that cooperation between Ukrainian and Western intelligence services can be described as "excellent." According to him, Ukraine currently depends heavily on the United States for intelligence sharing, particularly in early warnings about missile launches and access to satellite imagery.
"I don’t see any signs our cooperation in the security services will stop. This is not beneficial for us and not beneficial for our partners either, because they get information from us," Budanov said.
Budanov also urged allies to stop relying solely on technology and return to human intelligence — networks of spies. He explained that nearly all European countries "have buried" traditional intelligence-gathering methods, which he believes is a mistake.
"Stop believing that technical intelligence will solve everything. No one will discuss and plan an operation on a mobile phone," the intelligence chief added.
Trump shifts stance on Ukraine
US President Donald Trump is increasingly voicing dissatisfaction with Russia’s attacks on Ukraine. He has already stated that up to 7,000 people are dying each week on both sides.
Amid this, media reports have emerged that he has approved part of the military aid requested by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It was reported that the White House is preparing to send additional weapons to Kyiv, while Congress is planning to pass tough new sanctions against Russia.
