Zelensky fires counterintelligence chief over Wagnergate

President Zelensky dismissed Oleksandr Rusnak as head
of the SBU counterintelligence department on Nov. 29. The decree, which was
published on president.gov.ua on the same day, did not give a reason for the
dismissal.

Rusnak had been appointed to the position in 2019, and
was promoted to SBU Major General in 2020, pravda.com.ua reports. However,
Zelensky pointed out at the Nov. 26 press conference that he was “ashamed” at
the lack of professionalism shown by Ukraine’s counterintelligence during the
operation to capture the Wagner operatives.

James Hydzik: Rusnak’s departure is no surprise, but relieving the head of
counterintelligence at the SBU just days after receiving “information” about a
coup attempt is in itself quite odd. The qualifications and experience of
Rusnak’s replacement will be examined thoroughly to see how dependent the new
chief will be on Zelensky.