Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as his new presidential chief of staff. The move follows Andriy Yermak’s resignation amid a high-profile corruption scandal. Zelensky emphasized the need to prioritize security and defence amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Budanov, 39, led Hur military intelligence and oversaw successful strikes against Russian forces. He will now focus on updating strategic defence documents and strengthening Ukraine’s security infrastructure. Zelensky praised Budanov’s experience in security, defence, and diplomacy as crucial for current national challenges.
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In a broader reshuffle, Zelensky named Mykhaylo Fedorov, minister of digital transformation, as Ukraine’s new defence minister. At 34, Fedorov is the youngest in government and will focus on training drone operators and reorganizing the defence ministry. Budanov’s previous intelligence role will be filled by foreign intelligence chief Oleh Ivashchenko.
Yermak resigned on November 28 after anti-corruption authorities raided his home, though he faces no charges. The probe involves alleged embezzlement of $100 million in state-owned energy companies. The scandal weakened Zelensky domestically and complicated Ukraine’s international peace negotiations, which Russia highlighted as evidence of corruption.
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Observers say Budanov’s appointment signals a shift toward a war-focused presidential office, prioritizing defence over political influence. The changes aim to strengthen Ukraine’s battlefield resilience while improving negotiating power internationally.