Russia’s security apparatus more efficient than army - Ukraine’s intel

Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, said this in an interview with Ukrainian News, answering the question of why Western intelligence agencies cannot physically eliminate Russian President Vladimir Putin, reports Ukrinform.

"Russia remains a large country with an extensive network of intelligence services and various security agencies. Russia’s special services work more efficiently than the Russian army. The dictatorship spares no money on its own security. Theoretically, we can talk about it, but from a practical perspective, it’s not an easy task," he said.

Answering the question of whether there were such attempts (on Putin’s life - ed.), Yusov said that the GUR is aware of them, without commenting any further.

Answering the question about Putin seen as a politically doomed figure, including whether there is a successor in this case and who it could be, the spokesman for the Main Intelligence Directorate noted that no such person has emerged so far in the political arena.

"In the conditions of a dictatorship, designating a successor in advance is an extremely risky endeavor for decision makers. But, of course, some internal processes are ongoing. Such peculiar castings are taking place, and it is another thing that it is not done in a democratic and transparent way," he said.

Answering the question of how long Putin may have left to live, Yusov said he would not speculate.

"I would like it to happen as soon as possible. In the political sense, this is definitely not long. If we talk about his physical existence, then actually few people care about it. Strategically, his regime is doomed, as is Russia’s current form of existence. Yes, there are some reports about his grave diseases and stunt doubles. Of course, all this must be taken into account," said the GUR spox.

According to him, Ukraine is very interested in the original Putin, if he is still alive, to be put on the dock at the international tribunal.

Answering the question of whether there are certain doubts of whether Vladimir Putin is still alive, he said that if stunt doubles technology is actively used, then it can be applied actively and in any way. "Of course, it is necessary to make sure and double-check," Yusov said.

As reported, Yusov said that the Hague tribunal is inevitable for Putin, and that in this situation it would be even better if he were alive.

Photo: radiosvoboda