Shootout Between Ukrainian Intelligence Agencies Leaves Three Wounded

A shootout between two of Ukraine’s leading intelligence agencies has left at least three security officials wounded, revealing deep-seated divisions within Kyiv’s security apparatus. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning in the Dniprovskyi district of the capital, involving the Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) and the State Security Service (SBU). President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the situation as 'absolutely disgraceful.' Reports indicate that the conflict arose after the SBU detained Stepan Kaplunov, the deputy commander of the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), which operates under HUR. The SBU claimed it acted on orders to thwart a potential terrorist act linked to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). During the operation, armed individuals reportedly attacked the SBU team, attempting to obstruct their investigative actions. These attackers were identified as members of HUR. The commander of HUR’s special unit accused the SBU of kidnapping Kaplunov and initiating the gunfire. Legal representation for Kaplunov confirmed that one HUR officer was hospitalized with a gunshot wound, while two others sustained injuries. Kaplunov, originally from Russia, has been fighting for Ukraine since 2022 and is considered a target by Moscow. Following the incident, President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for accountability and internal investigations within both agencies. He has since dismissed Oleg Khramov, head of the SBU’s Department for the Protection of State Secrets. Calls for a thorough investigation have been echoed by Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office. This incident occurs amid a broader shake-up of Ukraine's security structure, as Zelenskyy has made significant personnel changes in response to the ongoing war with Russia. Earlier this year, he removed the head of the SBU and appointed new leadership within military intelligence. Analysts suggest these changes reflect an effort to enhance political coordination among security institutions, particularly in light of recent anti-corruption investigations targeting senior officials. The situation remains fluid as the government seeks to address both security and accountability issues within its intelligence community.