Intel chief reveals details of operation involving defection of Russian Mi-8 helicopter pilot

The head of Ukraine Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, elaborated on a daring operation to persuade a Russian Mi-8 helicopter pilot to flip sides.

The intelligence chief spoke in an interview with RFE/RL, Ukrinform reports.

"We were able to find the right approach to the person to create the conditions to take his whole family out of the country and eventually create the conditions so that he could fly this aircraft along with the rest of the crew who weren’t aware of what was going on. When they realized where they had landed, they tried to flee. Unfortunately, they were eliminated. I wish we could capture them alive, but we have what we have," said Budanov.

According to Budanov, the helicopter is currently in Kyiv. The official added that it will be possible to see the helicopter and talk to the pilot after the "official video report" is released.

"The pilot feels great, everything is fine with him. He has two options, but he is inclined to be here (in Ukraine - ed.)," Kyrylo Budanov added, stopping short of disclosing the motivation behind the Russian serviceman’s actions.

The head of the GUR calls the operation one of the best run by his agency in the entire history of Ukraine.

As reported, journalist Yuriy Butusov broke the news on Facebook that the Russian Mi-8 combat helicopter, together with the entire crew, flew over to Ukraine and surrendered to the Armed Forces.

Later, GUR confirmed that they had "landed" the Russian helicopter, and that the crew were being dealt with.