BERLIN (Reuters] – Germany’s head of foreign intelligence was in Ukraine at the time when Russia invaded. He was taken by special forces overland on a two-day trip, and returned to Germany via land.

Federal Intelligence Service (BND), confirmed that Bruno Kahl was in Ukraine Wednesday to “urgent discussions”, but had to alter his plans for departure after the invasion started.

“Because the outbreak of hostilities, and the closing of Ukraine’s aircraftspace, the president had taken the land route home,” said the BND in a Friday statement, but it did not include any mention of special forces.

It was difficult because there were so many refugees traveling in the opposite direction. He’s now back in Europe and can be expected to arrive in Berlin this morning.

Bild reported that sources claimed Kahl was in Ukraine to give important information personally. Kahl was a former politician and not a career agent. He had also missed the evacuation of German diplomats. He is now in Poland.

Large numbers of refugees fleeing Russia’s advance have created long lines at Ukraine’s borders with its west neighbours.