0
0
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the country’s military intelligence chief, as head of the presidential administration, signaling a major shift in Ukraine’s government amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The move places a senior security figure at the center of government decision-making during a critical stage of the war.
Traditionally, the position has been held by civilian political figures focused on domestic affairs. Budanov, a decorated war veteran and one of Ukraine’s most respected military leaders, brings extensive experience in security, defence, and diplomacy.
“Ukraine needs greater focus on security, the military, and diplomacy. Kyrylo has specialised experience in these areas and the strength to deliver results,” Zelenskiy said in a statement.
Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, a longtime Zelenskiy confidant who resigned amid a corruption scandal that prompted public criticism and calls for accountability. Yermak had been a key negotiator in previous peace discussions and a powerful behind-the-scenes figure in the administration.
In accepting his new role, Budanov said his priority would be safeguarding Ukraine’s strategic security interests. Zelenskiy also announced plans to appoint Oleh Ivashchenko, the current head of foreign intelligence, as the new military intelligence chief, alongside other leadership changes in the border service.
Budanov has led Ukraine’s Defence Ministry Main Directorate of Intelligence since 2020, overseeing several covert and military operations against Russian forces and participating in prisoner exchange negotiations with Moscow. Known for his reserved public style and cryptic remarks, Budanov’s media appearances are part of Ukraine’s broader information strategy during the war. He has survived multiple assassination attempts and sustained injuries in earlier fighting in eastern Ukraine following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
The leadership shake-up comes as Kyiv faces mounting pressure on the battlefield and from Western partners to seek a resolution to the conflict. Zelenskiy is expected to rely on Budanov’s military credibility to strengthen state institutions and restore public confidence amid the ongoing war.
