Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has named Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence service, as his new chief of staff, following the resignation of his previous top aide in a high-profile corruption row. The announcement signals a shift in focus toward security and defence priorities as Ukraine continues its war with Russia.

New Leadership at the Presidential Office

In a statement on social media, Zelensky explained the rationale behind the appointment:

“At this time, Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues, the development of the defence and security forces of Ukraine, as well as on the diplomatic track of negotiations. Kyrylo has specialist experience in these areas and sufficient strength to deliver results.”

Budanov, 39, has led the Hur Military Intelligence and was credited with several highly effective operations targeting Russian forces since the invasion began in 2022. His appointment to the historically powerful role of chief of presidential staff reflects a strategy to place the president’s office on a war footing, emphasizing security, defence coordination, and ongoing negotiations.

Zelensky has instructed Budanov to review and update key strategic defence documents, indicating that Ukraine is prioritizing military readiness and intelligence-driven operations at the highest level of government.

Wider Cabinet Reshuffle

Alongside Budanov’s appointment, Zelensky announced plans to replace Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal with Mykhaylo Fedorov, Ukraine’s 34-year-old minister of digital transformation. Fedorov is noted for developing Diia, a centralized digital government services platform, and has been deeply involved in drone warfare initiatives. His new responsibilities will include training more drone operators and modernizing the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence.

Shmyhal will remain in government, being moved to a different role within the administration, ensuring continuity while enabling a younger, more security-focused leadership at the defence ministry.

Additionally, Budanov’s former role as head of military intelligence will be filled by Oleh Ivashchenko, 56, the current foreign intelligence chief.

Context: Corruption Row and Political Shake-Up

Budanov succeeds Andriy Yermak, who resigned on 28 November 2025 after his home was raided by Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies. While Yermak is not accused of any wrongdoing, the raid came amid a major $100m embezzlement scandal in the energy sector, implicating several high-profile figures and state-owned companies including Enerhoatom, Ukraine’s nuclear energy firm.

The corruption scandal has weakened Zelensky’s political position and threatened his leverage in US-led peace negotiations with Russia, particularly over a draft peace plan seen as favouring Moscow. Russian officials have cited the scandal to highlight alleged corruption in Ukraine, further complicating diplomatic efforts.

Strategic Significance

The new appointments underline Zelensky’s intent to consolidate security, intelligence, and defence expertise within the presidential office during a critical period of the war. Budanov’s experience in military intelligence and Fedorov’s digital and drone expertise suggest a shift toward modernized, technology-driven defence strategies.

Historically, the role of chief of presidential staff in Ukraine has been extremely powerful, influencing government appointments and policy decisions. Budanov’s appointment signals a focus on operational security and war-time governance, moving the office away from the political influence traditionally wielded by Yermak.

Zelensky’s leadership team changes indicate a dual focus on fighting corruption and strengthening Ukraine’s military capacity, reflecting the country’s strategic priorities as diplomatic negotiations with Russia continue.