Kyiv reports poisoning of Ukraine spy chief’s spouse.

Marianna Budanova, the wife of Ukraine’s spy chief Lt Gen Kyrylo Budanov, has reportedly been poisoned with heavy metals, according to Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for the country’s military intelligence. Several other agency employees are also experiencing mild symptoms of poisoning. The reports did not explicitly attribute the alleged attack to Russia. Gen Budanov, a key figure in planning military operations against Russian forces since the 2022 invasion, has not been suggested as a target. Marianna Budanova is undergoing treatment in the hospital, with sources mentioning a course of treatment and monitoring by doctors. The type of heavy metal involved has not been disclosed, but it is emphasized that these substances are not used in everyday life or military operations. Ukrainian media, including Babel and Ukrainska Pravda, reported on the poisoning, with indications that Marianna may have consumed poisoned food. She holds a master’s degree in psychology and has been involved in politics, serving as an adviser to the mayor of Kyiv. In 2015-17, she volunteered at Kyiv’s military hospital. Lt Gen Budanov had previously mentioned staying in his office for safety reasons since the February 2022 invasion, and there have been more than 10 assassination attempts against him, according to Mr Yusov.