Ukraine's Foreign Minister clarifies Zelenskyy's remarks on ambassadors, announces staffing moves

The Minister noted that staff changes in the diplomatic corps will take place before the upcoming ambassadors' meeting, which is scheduled for the end of July.

"The geopolitical situation requires the diplomatic service to find new arguments and approaches adapted to today's realities. That is why the President has already made certain personnel decisions regarding the heads of some foreign missions, because the criterion is very simple: results," Sybiha explained.

According to the Foreign Minister, the effectiveness of the head of a foreign diplomatic mission is measured by their work, particularly, the ability to secure military, economic, and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, as well as providing support for Ukrainian citizens abroad.

"Therefore, ahead of the ambassadors’ meeting, which has been approved by the President of Ukraine, there will definitely be appropriate personnel decisions aimed particularly at strengthening Ukraine’s diplomatic service," Sybiha concluded.

Ukraine increases pressure on Kremlin

During a media briefing on June 20, President Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine would implement a set of measures to strengthen its defenses against Russia. Among other things, the Ukrainian leader announced plans to reinforce the country's diplomatic standing and initiate a number of personnel changes among diplomats.

In addition, weapon production for the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces will be launched, with several partner countries expected to start manufacturing. Meanwhile, Ukraine proposes to "disarm" the Russians: Western companies that supply equipment to Kremlin factories should either deactivate the machinery already delivered or stop supplying it entirely. Otherwise, Ukraine itself will take action on the matter.