Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the country’s top military intelligence chief, as his new chief of staff, just over a month after the resignation of his previous top aide amid a corruption controversy.
“At this time, Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues,” Zelensky wrote on social media, sharing a photo of his meeting with Budanov in Kyiv.
Budanov, 39, previously headed the Hur Military Intelligence, which has claimed responsibility for a number of highly effective strikes against Russian forces. Zelensky said Budanov’s specialist expertise in security, defence, and diplomacy made him the ideal choice to lead the presidential office at a critical juncture.
“Kyrylo has specialist experience in these areas and sufficient strength to deliver results,” Zelensky wrote, adding that Budanov had already been tasked with updating and presenting key documents on the strategic foundations of Ukraine’s defence.
Budanov succeeds Andriy Yermak, 54, who resigned on November 28. Yermak, a powerful figure throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion since 2022, also led Ukraine’s negotiating team in crucial talks with the United States aimed at advancing peace efforts. His departure was widely seen as a blow to Zelensky’s political influence.
Yermak resigned shortly after his Kyiv residence was raided by Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies, though he has not been accused of wrongdoing. Officials from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) have not publicly explained the reason for the search.
The investigation comes amid a broader $100 million embezzlement scandal in Ukraine’s energy sector, which has implicated several high-profile figures.
Authorities allege a scheme involving kickbacks and influence over state-owned companies, including the nuclear energy firm Enerhoatom.
The scandal has shaken Ukraine’s political landscape, undermining Zelensky’s negotiating leverage at a sensitive time, as Kyiv and its European allies push to revise a US-led draft peace plan seen as favouring Russia.
Russian officials have seized on the controversy, highlighting corruption claims to bolster their position.
Budanov’s appointment signals Zelensky’s intent to strengthen the focus on security and defence within the presidential office while navigating the ongoing diplomatic and political challenges facing Ukraine.
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