In a dense Ukrainian forest lies a military base that appears abandoned and destroyed, the aftermath of a Russian missile attack early in the war. However, beneath the surface lies a secret bunker where Ukrainian soldiers track Russian spy satellites and eavesdrop on conversations between Russian commanders. This underground nerve center, built to replace the destroyed command center, is almost fully financed and equipped by the C.I.A.
General Serhii Dvoretskiy, a top intelligence commander, revealed in an interview that the base is “one hundred and ten percent” supported by the C.I.A. This partnership, which has been in the works for over a decade, is a linchpin of Ukraine’s defense against Russia, providing critical intelligence for missile strikes, tracking troop movements, and supporting spy networks.
The partnership between Washington and Kyiv has transformed Ukraine into a key intelligence partner against the Kremlin, with a network of spy bases constructed along the Russian border. The Ukrainians have proven their worth to the Americans by collecting intercepts that helped attribute Russia’s involvement in various incidents, including the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
The C.I.A. has also trained elite Ukrainian commandos, captured Russian drones and communications gear, and supported a new generation of Ukrainian spies operating inside Russia and other locations with a significant Russian presence. This intelligence partnership has become more crucial as Russia’s aggression escalates and Ukraine relies on sabotage and long-range missile strikes that require spies deep behind enemy lines.
Despite initial caution and mutual distrust, the partnership between the C.I.A. and Ukrainian intelligence officials has flourished, with Ukraine becoming a hub for intelligence gathering against Russia. This relationship, which nearly foundered in its early stages, has now become one of the most vital assets for both countries in their efforts against the Kremlin.
As Russia continues its offensive and Ukraine becomes more reliant on intelligence networks, the future of this partnership hangs in the balance. If Republican lawmakers in Congress end military funding to Kyiv, the C.I.A. may be forced to scale back its support. However, recent developments, including a secret visit by C.I.A. Director William J. Burns, indicate that the partnership remains strong and essential in the face of ongoing conflict with Russia.
This is the untold story of how a cautious beginning between the C.I.A. and Ukrainian intelligence officials evolved into a crucial partnership that is now at the forefront of Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.