An intelligence figure became Zelensky’s new chief of staff

According to RCO News Agency, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced Krylo Budanov, the head of the country’s military intelligence, as the new head of his office on Friday. The decision came after his former chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, resigned in November amid a corruption scandal.

39-year-old Budanov has become famous in Ukraine for a series of daring operations against Russia. Zelensky announced that in a meeting with Budanov, he offered him this position and he accepted it.

This appointment is made at a critical time; Because the nearly four-year war between Ukraine and Russia continues, and Zelensky recently said that the peace agreement being prepared with the mediation of the United States is “90 percent” ready. He emphasized that Ukraine should now focus more on security issues, the development of defense and security forces, and the diplomatic path of negotiations.

Budanov also said that he will continue to serve Ukraine and considers this responsibility as an honor for his country at this historical moment.

The official process of his appointment has begun. He will replace Yermak, who resigned after his home was searched during a major corruption case. Yermak was one of Zelensky’s closest allies, but he was a controversial figure in Kiev, with opponents saying he had wielded too much power and sidelined critics.

The four-year war, the deadliest in Europe since World War II, has left tens of thousands dead and devastated large parts of Ukraine.

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