Leading the story: Zelensky fired Ivan Bakanov, head of Ukraine’s Security Service, and Irina Venediktova, the country’s prosecutor general, after it was revealed that many in their departments were working with Russia.
More than 60 employees in both offices “remained in the occupied territories and are working against our state,” Zelensky said in a press release. “Such a series of crimes against the foundations of national security of the state and the connections identified between the employees of the security forces of Ukraine and the special services of Russia raise very serious questions for the relevant leadership,” Zelensky said. “Every single one of those questions will get a right answer.” “To date, 651 criminal proceedings have been registered regarding treason and cooperation activities of prosecutors, pre-trial bodies and other law enforcement agencies,” Zelensky added.
Background: Zelensky and Bakanov go way back.
Bakanov is a childhood friend of Zelensky, according to Politico. He also ran Zelensky’s entertainment company and led his presidential campaign. However, Politico reported in June that the Ukrainian president hoped to oust his friend as security chief.
