Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has undertaken a significant leadership reshuffle by appointing military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as his new Chief of Staff. The decision comes just over a month after former aide Andriy Yermak resigned amidst a widening corruption scandal that has shaken the Ukrainian government.
Zelensky announced the strategic appointment through social media, emphasizing Ukraine’s critical need for enhanced security focus during ongoing hostilities with Russia. The president published an official photograph showing his meeting with Budanov at the presidential office in Kyiv, signaling confidence in his new top advisor.
Budanov, 39, previously headed Ukraine’s HUR military intelligence agency, where he directed numerous successful operations against Russian forces. His expertise in security matters and defense strategy positioned him as a natural successor during this period of heightened military tensions.
Yermak’s November departure followed a raid on his Kyiv residence by anti-corruption authorities, though he has not been formally accused of wrongdoing. His exit represented a substantial political setback for Zelensky, particularly as Yermak had wielded considerable influence throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion and led Ukraine’s negotiation team in crucial talks with the United States.
The leadership change occurs against the backdrop of a major corruption investigation involving alleged embezzlement of approximately $100 million in Ukraine’s energy sector. Anti-corruption agencies have uncovered an extensive scheme involving kickbacks and influence peddling within state-owned enterprises, including nuclear energy provider Enerhoatom.
This scandal has weakened Zelensky’s domestic standing and complicated Ukraine’s diplomatic position during sensitive negotiations regarding a US-led peace proposal. European allies have supported Kyiv’s efforts to revise terms initially perceived as favoring Russia, while Russian officials have amplified corruption allegations to undermine Ukraine’s international credibility.
Zelensky has instructed Budanov to immediately review and update key strategic documents concerning Ukraine’s defense foundations, reflecting the administration’s renewed commitment to security priorities amid ongoing conflict and internal challenges.