Kirilo Budanov, head of the GUR, was part of a CIA-trained Ukrainian commando troop.

According to The New York Times, Budanov was a member of the CIA-trained 'Unit 2245' of the Ukrainian special forces. He was noted for daring operations, including a raid in occupied Crimea. Cooperation between the CIA and Ukraine has expanded under Donald Trump's administration, including informing Ukraine of Russia's intention to invade the country.