Language Ombudswoman Demands Clarification from SBU and GUR Over Use of Russian During September 2nd Shootout

Language Ombudswoman’s Official Request

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Olena Ivanovska, Ukraine’s language ombudswoman, has formally addressed the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense (GUR), seeking an explanation for why their personnel communicated in Russian during the violent confrontation that took place in Kyiv on September 2. She also requested detailed identification information for the GUR and SBU officers who spoke Russian during the incident.

To provide context, the September 2 shootout occurred between members of the GUR and SBU in Kyiv. Law enforcement authorities have since filed charges against two individuals involved. The SBU officer faces accusations of abusing power or official authority under Part 2 of Article 365 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Meanwhile, the GUR serviceman is suspected of attempting to kill a law enforcement officer, as outlined in Article 348 of the same code.

Summary of Events on September 2

The Security Service of Ukraine reported that, in cooperation with GUR, they successfully thwarted a terrorist attack targeting a prominent leader of the Russian opposition political national movement who had arrived in Ukraine. Investigators from the State Bureau of Investigation and the head of the Special Operations Center 'A' were dispatched to the scene. To halt the assault, special forces from the 'Alpha' unit were deployed.

During a search linked to the assassination attempt investigation, SBU officers came under armed attack. The assailants were detained, with some sustaining injuries. The Office of the Prosecutor General has initiated a pre-trial investigation into threats and attempted murder against law enforcement personnel.

Notably, on September 2, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree dismissing Oleg Khramov, head of the Department for State Secret Protection and Licensing within the SBU. On September 3, authorities formally charged two participants involved in the shooting between SBU officers and GUR servicemen.

Olena Ivanovska emphasized that her inquiry aims to 'clarify the circumstances and make a balanced decision.'

This incident underscores the critical need for effective communication and coordination among Ukraine's security agencies, especially amid heightened security threats. Conflicts between law enforcement bodies can have severe repercussions, making it essential to fully understand the factors that led to the shooting and the role language played during interactions. Ivanovska’s request highlights the importance of raising awareness and sensitivity regarding language use in high-stakes situations, reflecting broader challenges in maintaining unity within Ukraine’s defense and intelligence sectors.