Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov says that Russian President Vladimir Putin recently survived an assassination attempt which was then covered up by the Kremlin.

The Daily Wire reports:

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate, made the claim in an interview with Ukraine Pravda. While he offered few details, the alleged assassination bid would have come about one month into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“He was even attacked in the line of, as they say, representatives of the Caucasus not so long ago,” Budanov said. “This is non-public information. Absolutely unsuccessful attempt, but it really took place… It was about two months ago.

“Once again, he was unsuccessful,” he added. “There is no publicity about this event, but it took place.”

The assassination attempt could not be verified, but there is strong evidence the invasion of Ukraine is unpopular in Russia. Protests broke out in major cities in March, and although demonstrators were arrested, opposition has become more stealthy since then. Graffiti, sabotage of the railways of both Russia and Belarus and the firebombing of recruitment centers have occurred, according to Fox News. One shadowy group called “Stop the Wagons” posted on social media a map of railway targets for blocking military supplies bound Ukraine.

Since the attempt on his life Putin has reportedly employed a team of people to taste his food and has also replaced his entire personal staff of 1,000 people.