What to know about the Ukrainian general picked to be Zelenskyy's chief of staff

What to know about the Ukrainian general picked to be Zelenskyy's chief of staff

AP Newsworld

Key Points:

  • President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, as his new chief of staff amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
  • Budanov, 39, is a prominent wartime figure known for leading successful operations against Russian forces and expanding intelligence efforts beyond front lines since 2020.
  • He replaces Andrii Yermak, who resigned following an anti-corruption investigation, marking a shift toward prioritizing defense and security in Ukraine’s government.
  • Budanov has survived multiple assassination attempts and is involved in diplomatic efforts, including prisoner exchanges and U.S.-led peace negotiations, though his exact role in peace talks remains unclear.
  • Zelenskyy