Zelensky names spy chief to head presidential administration in big shake-up
CNN••world
Key Points:
- President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s defense spy chief and decorated war veteran, as his top adviser and presidential chief of staff, signaling a shift toward prioritizing military and security expertise in decision-making.
- Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, a longtime Zelensky confidante who resigned amid a corruption scandal linked to a $100 million kickback scheme, which had sparked public anger during Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia.
- Zelensky emphasized the need for greater focus on security, military, and diplomacy, highlighting Budanov’s specialized experience and strength to deliver results in these areas.
- Budanov, who has led Ukraine’s military intelligence since 2020 and survived multiple assassination attempts
