Ukrainian President. Volodymyr Zelenskiy has appointed the country’s military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, as head of the presidential administration, placing a senior security figure at the centre of government decision-making as Ukraine continues to confront Russia’s invasion.
The appointment marks a significant departure from tradition, as the role has historically been held by civilian political figures focused largely on domestic affairs. Budanov, a decorated war veteran and widely respected public figure, is seen as one of Ukraine’s most prominent military leaders.
Zelenskiy said the move reflects the need for stronger focus on security, defence and diplomacy at a critical stage of the war and amid U.S.-backed efforts to push peace talks forward.
“Ukraine needs greater focus on security, the military and diplomacy. Kyrylo has specialised experience in these areas and sufficient strength to deliver results,” the president said in a statement.
Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, a longtime confidant of Zelenskiy, who resigned amid a corruption scandal that sparked public criticism and calls for accountability within government. Yermak had been widely described as a powerful behind-the-scenes figure and a key negotiator in past peace discussions.
In accepting the new role, Budanov said his priority would be safeguarding Ukraine’s strategic security interests. Zelenskiy also announced plans to appoint the current head of foreign intelligence, Oleh Ivashchenko, as the new military intelligence chief, alongside changes to the leadership of the border service.
Budanov has led the Defence Ministry’s Main Directorate of Intelligence since 2020 and has overseen several covert and military operations against Russian forces. He has also played a role in negotiations over prisoner exchanges with Moscow.
I had a meeting with Kyrylo Budanov and offered him the role of the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. At this time, Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues, the development of the Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine, as well as on the diplomatic track of… pic.twitter.com/SCs6Oj2Rb7
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 2, 2026
Known for his reserved public style and cryptic remarks, Budanov has said his media appearances form part of Ukraine’s broader information strategy during the war. He has survived multiple assassination attempts and was wounded several times during earlier fighting in eastern Ukraine following Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
The shake-up comes at a difficult moment for Kyiv, with Russian forces pressing forward on the battlefield and growing pressure from Western partners to seek a resolution to the conflict. Zelenskiy is expected to rely on Budanov’s military credibility to help restore public confidence and strengthen state institutions during the ongoing war.
