Archive · 18 Jan 2026
Kyrylo Budanov's Rise Marks Shift in Ukraine's Politics
Kyrylo Budanov, a popular figure in Ukraine known for his daring operations against Russia, has been appointed as the new chief of staff, replacing Andriy Yermak.
Yermak, a close confidant of President Zelenskyy, was involved in a corruption scandal.
Budanov's appointment is seen as a significant shift in Ukrainian politics, with some speculating it could be the start of a plan to replace Zelenskyy.
Budanov is well-liked by the Americans and is seen as a credible negotiator, which could be beneficial for Ukraine's peace talks.
However, Zelenskyy has taken steps to ensure Budanov remains within his team.
Kyrylo Budanov, known for surviving ten assassination attempts and daring operations against Russia, has been appointed as Ukraine's new chief of staff.
Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, a close confidant of President Zelenskyy who was involved in an energy corruption scandal.
Budanov's appointment is seen as a 'tectonic shift' in Ukrainian politics and a move to boost Zelenskyy's sliding approval ratings.
Budanov is well-liked by the Americans and is seen as a credible negotiator, which could be beneficial for Ukraine's peace talks.
Some speculate that Budanov's rise could be the start of 'Operation Successor', but Zelenskyy has taken steps to keep Budanov within his team.
- Who
- Kyrylo Budanov, former head of Ukraine's military intelligence service (HUR), and Andriy Yermak, former chief of staff
- What
- Budanov has been appointed as chief of staff, replacing Yermak in a major shake-up of top officials
- When
- The appointment took place last week, just after Christmas
- Where
- Ukraine
- Why
- Yermak was involved in an energy corruption scandal, and Budanov's popularity is seen as a way to boost Zelenskyy's approval ratings
- Kyrylo Budanov
- Former head of Ukraine's military intelligence service (HUR), now chief of staff
- Andriy Yermak
- Former chief of staff and close confidant of President Zelenskyy, replaced by Budanov
- Assassination Attempts
- Budanov has survived ten assassination attempts
- Notable Operations
- Involved in bomb attacks on the bridge to Russia-occupied Crimea and a bounty money trick on Russian spooks
- Public Trust
- Budanov is more trusted than President Zelenskyy in some polls
- Energy Corruption Scandal
- Yermak was mired in an energy corruption scandal
- Zelenskyy's Approval Ratings
- Have been sliding, with Budanov's appointment seen as a move to bring renewed lustre
- Peace Talks
- Budanov's rise is seen as positive for Ukraine's prospects in peace talks