Public Trust in Kyrylo Budanov
Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, remains one of the country's most trusted public figures. A survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) from May 7 to June 3, 2026, found that 70% of Ukrainians expressed confidence in him. His net trust balance stands at +48%. These figures have remained steady compared to January 2026, when trust levels were also at 70%.
The poll was carried out via telephone interviews with 1,015 adult citizens living in government-controlled areas of Ukraine. The results confirm that security and defense officials enjoy the highest level of public support. Sociologists attribute this strong trust to the public's need for leaders who are closely associated with protecting the state and making decisions during wartime.
Budanov's Role in the Political Landscape
Additionally, a March 2026 survey by the SOCIS Center also ranked Kyrylo Budanov among the top figures in public trust, highlighting his importance in Ukraine's current political environment.
Budanov's consistently high approval rating reflects the stability of his position amid the ongoing war and the public's enduring demand for strong leadership in the security sector. This suggests that Ukrainians are looking for confident leaders capable of ensuring their safety and national stability. In the context of the current situation in Ukraine, such trust may also shape political dynamics and influence key decisions at the national level.
As Budanov's approval rating remains high amid ongoing challenges, it is essential to understand the pressures he faces. In a recent interview with The Times, he disclosed details about ten assassination attempts and addressed the looming nuclear threat from Russia, shedding light on the critical issues influencing his leadership and the public's trust in him.