Overview
- Budanov said he accepted the offer to become head of the Office of the President, and a presidential adviser confirmed that formal appointment procedures have begun.
- Zelensky framed the choice as sharpening work on national security, development of the defense and security forces, and the diplomatic track of negotiations.
- The president tasked Budanov with updating Ukraine’s strategic defense foundations in coordination with national security leaders and relevant institutions.
- Budanov has led the GUR since 2020, is credited with high-profile operations against Russian targets, and is widely popular in Ukraine while being pursued by Russia.
- He replaces Andriy Yermak, who exited in late November after anti-corruption searches, as Ukraine reports progress in U.S.-backed peace efforts that Zelensky says are 90% ready while both sides report ongoing strikes and disputed incidents.