Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of the country’s military intelligence service, as his new chief of staff. This leadership change occurs amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia and intensifying diplomatic efforts, with Budanov replacing Andrii Yermak, who resigned in November.
Appointment Details
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the appointment of Gen. Kyrylo Budanov as his new chief of staff. The decision was made during the nearly four-year conflict with Russia and concurrent diplomatic efforts. President Zelenskyy stated that the appointment reflects Ukraine's need for an increased focus on security matters, the development of its defense and security forces, and peace negotiations, specifying that the Office of the President would primarily support these national objectives. He affirmed Budanov's suitability, noting his "specialised experience in these areas and sufficient strength to achieve results."
Predecessor's Departure
General Budanov replaces Andrii Yermak, who served as President Zelenskyy’s chief of staff until his resignation in November. Yermak's departure followed investigations by anti-corruption officials into alleged graft within Ukraine's energy sector, which reportedly involved properties linked to him.
Kyrylo Budanov: Background and Military Career
Kyrylo Budanov, 39, has led Ukraine's military intelligence agency, known as the GUR (or HUR), since August 2020. A native of Kyiv, he received his military education in Odesa.
A career military intelligence officer, Budanov's career advanced following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. He participated in special operations and intelligence missions related to the conflict with separatist forces in eastern Ukraine and Crimea prior to the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Reports indicate he was wounded three times during his service, including a shrapnel wound near his heart and a gunshot wound to the elbow, which resulted in a noticeable stiffness in his right arm. He attained the rank of general at age 35. In 2024, President Zelenskyy awarded him the "Hero of Ukraine" title.
Leadership of Military Intelligence and Operations
Since the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Budanov has been a visible figure in Ukraine's intelligence efforts, providing interviews and briefings that convey strategic messaging. He has consistently commented on Russia's long-term intentions and characterized the conflict as an existential struggle for Ukrainian statehood.
Under Budanov's leadership, the GUR expanded its operational scope, coordinating intelligence, sabotage, and special operations aimed at impacting Russian military capabilities. Ukrainian officials have attributed to the military intelligence service operations targeting Russian command structures, logistics hubs, energy infrastructure, and naval assets. These operations include actions within Russian territory and occupied areas of Ukraine.
Specific operations associated with Budanov or the GUR under his command include:
- The 2022 explosion on the Crimean Bridge.
- A January drone strike on an oil refinery in Saint Petersburg.
- The sinking of a Russian warship in Crimea.
Prior to the February 2022 invasion, Budanov had predicted a large-scale attack. On February 1, 2024, he stated that "the number of attacks against Russian infrastructure will probably multiply."
Security Incidents and Public Profile
According to a HUR spokesperson, Budanov has been the target of more than 10 assassination attempts attributed to Russian security services. These incidents include a car explosion in Kyiv in 2019. In November 2023, his wife, Marianna, was hospitalized in Kyiv due due to heavy metals poisoning.
Budanov is on Russia's wanted list and is considered a significant target by Moscow. Russia claimed his death in May 2023, although these claims were later contradicted. Ukrainian media have referred to him by various descriptions, including "the man without a smile" and "Buddhanov." He received a standing ovation at an international conference in Kyiv in September 2023.
Diplomatic Engagement and Future Focus
Budanov previously served as part of the delegation that worked with the U.S. negotiating team and engaged with the Russian side on matters such as prisoner exchanges. His new role will involve direct access to President Zelenskyy.
President Zelenskyy has stated that a peace deal is "90% ready," noting that the remaining issues, reportedly including territory, are critical. Budanov's specific role in future peace processes within his new position remains to be clarified.
Following the announcement of his appointment, Budanov issued a statement on his Telegram page. He thanked President Zelenskyy for his trust and affirmed his continued service to Ukraine, describing his new role as "both an honor and a responsibility — at a historic time for Ukraine — to focus on the critically important issues of the state’s strategic security." He also stated, "We will continue to do our job – to defeat the enemy, defend Ukraine and work to achieve a just peace."