Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, as the new head of the presidential office, following the dismissal of his predecessor amid a corruption scandal. Formal procedures for the appointment are currently under way, and Budanov has confirmed his acceptance of the role.
Zelensky said the decision reflects the need for greater focus on security, defence development, and strategic coordination at a critical moment for the country. Budanov stated that his new position represents an expanded area of responsibility, with an emphasis on national security and state interests.
The previous head of the presidential office, Andriy Yermak, was removed from the post in late November after anti-corruption agencies carried out searches linked to an investigation involving associates. While officially dismissed, media reports suggest Yermak has continued to maintain informal influence within the presidential administration.
Budanov, born in 1986 in Kyiv, has led Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate since 2020 and has been involved in security and intelligence operations since 2014. Some analysts describe the appointment as symbolic, noting Budanov’s prominence within Ukraine’s security establishment and his experience in sensitive negotiations, including prisoner exchanges.
The reshuffle has drawn varied interpretations, with some observers viewing it as a consolidation of power around security structures, while others see it as an effort to stabilise the presidential administration after political and reputational challenges.
