Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence (GUR), as his new chief of staff, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s focus on security, defense, and peace negotiations.
The appointment follows the dismissal of former chief of staff Andrii Yermak, after anti-corruption investigations in the energy sector. Zelenskyy said Budanov brings “specialized experience” to handle security issues, development of defense forces, and diplomacy.
Budanov, 39, expressed on Telegram that his new role is “both an honor and a responsibility — at a historic time for Ukraine — to focus on the critically important issues of the state’s strategic security.”
In addition, Zelenskyy proposed Mykhailo Fedorov, the current digital transformation minister, as the new defense minister. Fedorov, 34, is credited with introducing drone technology to Ukraine’s military and leading successful e-government platforms. He replaces Denys Shmyhal, who will take another role in government.
Budanov, a career intelligence officer, has led military intelligence since 2020 and has played a prominent role in special operations and strategic communications during Russia’s full-scale invasion. Analysts say his appointment strengthens Kyiv’s negotiating position, as he has experience liaising with international partners and managing prisoner exchanges.
Conflict Updates:
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Russian authorities reported 28 deaths in Khorly, Kherson region, allegedly from a Ukrainian drone strike; Kyiv denies targeting civilians, saying it strikes only Russian military and energy facilities.
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Russia launched missile strikes on Kharkiv, injuring at least 19 people, while Zaporizhzhia faced attacks by at least nine drones; Ukrainian forces intercepted most incoming drones.
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Russia reported damage in Belgorod from a Ukrainian missile strike, injuring two women.
Meanwhile, U.S. officials praised recent progress in peace talks involving Britain, France, Germany, and Ukraine, despite Russian statements complicating negotiations. Zelenskyy said a peace deal is “90% ready,” with the remaining issues, including territorial disputes, crucial to determining Ukraine’s future.
