Ukraine’s Zelensky Names Kyrylo Budanov as New Chief of Staff
The New York Times••world
Key Points:
- President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, as his new chief of staff, filling a vacancy left by Andriy Yermak’s resignation amid a corruption scandal.
- Yermak’s departure in November, who was also Kyiv’s lead peace negotiator, created space for a political overhaul delayed by the ongoing war with Russia.
- Budanov’s move from intelligence chief to a key political role marks a significant shift in Ukraine’s leadership as the country contemplates elections contingent on a cease-fire with Moscow.
- The appointment may impact Budanov’s potential presidential ambitions, as his new role within the presidential office could complicate any future electoral bid.
