Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has named military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as his new presidential chief of staff, following the resignation of Andriy Yermak amid a high-profile corruption scandal.

The move underscores Kyiv’s prioritization of security amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Budanov, 39, who has led the Hur military intelligence and overseen a series of successful strikes against Russian forces, was appointed to the historically influential role just over a month after Yermak resigned.

Zelensky said on social media: “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 has been tasked with updating and presenting key strategic documents for Ukraine’s defence, signaling an overhaul of the presidential office with an emphasis on the war effort.

Changes in Ukraine’s defence leadership

Zelensky also announced that Mykhaylo Fedorov, currently the minister of digital transformation, will replace Denys Shmyhal as Ukraine’s defence minister. At 34, Fedorov is the youngest minister in the Ukrainian government.

Zelensky highlighted Fedorov’s role in developing the Diya platform and his expertise with drones, emphasizing that he will focus on training more drone operators and reorganizing the defence ministry.

Shmyhal, Zelensky added, will remain in government in a different capacity. Meanwhile, Budanov’s former post leading Hur military intelligence will be filled by foreign intelligence chief Oleh Ivashchenko, 56.

Corruption scandal context

Yermak, 54, resigned as chief of staff on November 28 after his home in Kyiv was raided by anti-corruption authorities, though he faces no accusations of wrongdoing. Investigators have been probing alleged embezzlement in the energy sector, potentially involving $100 million and state-owned companies including Enerhoatom.

The scandal has weakened Zelensky’s position domestically and complicated Ukraine’s stance in peace negotiations, particularly in adjusting a US-led draft plan perceived as favouring Russia. Russian officials have seized on the scandal to highlight claims of corruption.

Observers note that Budanov’s appointment signals a shift toward a war-focused presidential office, with security and defence taking priority over political influence. The leadership changes come at a critical moment as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its negotiating position internationally while maintaining resilience on the battlefield.