Overview
- Formal steps to confirm the appointment have begun, according to presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn.
- Budanov signaled acceptance on Telegram, calling the post an honor and pledging focus on strategic security.
- Zelensky said Ukraine needs sharper focus on security priorities, development of defense and security forces, and the diplomatic track.
- Budanov has led Ukraine’s military intelligence directorate since 2020 and built a reputation for high-profile operations against Russia.
- The intelligence chief has been wounded in operations and, according to the GUR, targeted by more than ten assassination attempts.