Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed the country’s intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, as his new Chief of Staff, weeks after the resignation of his former top aide amid a corruption-related controversy.
Zelensky announced the appointment on Friday via social media, sharing images from a meeting with Budanov in Kyiv.
He said the decision was driven by the need to prioritise security concerns at a critical moment for the country.
“Ukraine currently requires stronger focus on security matters,” the president stated, noting that Budanov possesses the experience and resolve necessary to deliver tangible results.
At 39, Budanov has been at the helm of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, known as HUR, which has been credited with several successful operations against Russian forces since the invasion began.
Zelensky said the new Chief of Staff has been tasked with reviewing and presenting updated strategic documents outlining Ukraine’s defence priorities.
Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, who stepped down on November 28 following a raid on his residence by anti-corruption authorities.
Although Yermak was not formally accused of any wrongdoing, his exit came during an investigation into an alleged $100 million embezzlement scheme involving senior figures in Ukraine’s energy sector.
Yermak, 54, had played a prominent role in Ukraine’s wartime leadership, including heading Kyiv’s negotiating team in discussions with the United States on peace initiatives.
His resignation unsettled political circles in Kyiv at a sensitive time in negotiations with Western allies.
Zelensky said Budanov’s appointment is intended to reinforce Ukraine’s defence and security institutions, as well as support diplomatic efforts, as the country continues to confront both the ongoing war with Russia and internal governance challenges that Moscow has used to criticise Kyiv.
Zelensky appoints spy chief, Kyrylo Budanov as new Chief of Staff
