Overview
- Kyrylo Budanov confirmed his decision on Telegram, calling the role an honor and a responsibility to Ukraine.
- Budanov currently serves as head of the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense (HUR).
- President Volodymyr Zelensky said he proposed Budanov earlier today and tasked him to update strategic foundations for defense and development in coordination with the National Security and Defense Council.
- The position has been open since late November 2025 after Yermak stepped down, with officials not detailing the searches and media reporting he is not a suspect.
- In early December 2025, Zelensky named several contenders for the post before indicating he had settled on a candidate that included Budanov.