Ukrainian Intelligence Confirms RVC Commander Denis Kapustin Alive

In a significant development, Ukraine"s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR/GUR) has announced that Denis "White Rex" Kapustin, the commander of the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC/RDK), is alive following a complex month-long operation that involved faking his death. This revelation was made public on January 1, 2026, through a post on the official GUR Telegram channel, which has become a key platform for disseminating intelligence updates.

Key Details

Denis Kapustin, who leads the Russian Volunteer Corps, was reportedly targeted for assassination by Russian intelligence services, which allocated a substantial sum of $500,000 for this purpose. However, the Ukrainian intelligence managed to intercept these funds, effectively thwarting the assassination attempt. The GUR not only identified the individuals involved in the plot but also redirected the allocated funds to support their own operations, showcasing a strategic maneuver in the ongoing conflict.

In a video call during a briefing, Kyrylo Budanov, the chief of HUR, welcomed Kapustin "back to life," indicating the successful execution of the operation. Budanov praised the efforts of the "Timur" special unit, which played a crucial role in the operation. Kapustin himself confirmed his readiness to resume his duties, signaling a potential shift in the dynamics of the conflict.

Background

The Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) is a paramilitary group composed primarily of Russian nationals who have taken up arms to fight alongside Ukrainian forces against the Russian invasion. The group has gained notoriety for its operations and has been involved in various military engagements since the onset of the conflict. The announcement of Kapustin"s survival comes at a time when tensions between Ukraine and Russia remain high, with both sides engaging in strategic operations to gain the upper hand.

The operation that led to Kapustin"s faked death highlights the ongoing intelligence warfare between the two nations. The ability of Ukrainian intelligence to intercept funds and identify threats demonstrates a level of sophistication and effectiveness that could influence future engagements in the conflict.

What"s Next

The implications of Kapustin"s survival and the thwarted assassination attempt could be far-reaching. With Kapustin back in command, the RVC may intensify its operations, potentially altering the landscape of the conflict. The successful interception of the assassination funds not only represents a tactical victory for Ukraine but also serves as a warning to Russian intelligence about the capabilities of Ukrainian operatives.

As the situation continues to evolve, further developments are expected, particularly regarding the operational strategies of both the RVC and Ukrainian forces. The international community will be closely monitoring these developments, as they could have significant ramifications for the ongoing war and the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe.

For more on related coverage, see our article on CIA assessment finds Ukraine did not target Putin"s residence in drone incident.