Overview
- Ukraine’s presidential office confirmed on January 2 that Budanov will replace Andriy Yermak as chief of staff.
- Budanov currently leads Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence directorate and moves from an intelligence role into the president’s inner circle.
- Zelensky said he chose Budanov for his experience and ability to deliver results in security and diplomacy.
- Budanov is widely described in coverage as a hardliner on territorial negotiations, a shift observers read as reduced appetite for concessions.
- Reports note he was previously floated for senior military posts and that his relationship with the outgoing chief was seen as strained.