Zelensky Appoints Intelligence Chief as Head of Presidential Office
Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's military intelligence, was appointed as the new chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to an announcement made by Zelensky on social media. The move, which comes just over a month after the resignation of Andriy Yermak, Zelensky's previous top aide, signals a potential shift in priorities towards military and security matters amid the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky cited the need for increased focus on security issues as the primary reason for the appointment. "At this time, Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues," Zelensky said in a social media post, accompanied by a photo of him meeting with Budanov in Kyiv.
Budanov, 39, previously led the Hur military intelligence, which has claimed responsibility for a number of strikes against Russia. According to sources, Zelensky has tasked Budanov with updating Ukraine's defense strategy and strengthening diplomatic efforts.
The appointment follows the resignation of Andriy Yermak, who previously led negotiations with the U.S. Yermak wielded significant political influence throughout Russia's full scale invasion.
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