Zelenskyy hints Umerov could become Ukraine’s next ambassador to US

The Ukrainian head of state confirmed that he plans to replace Ukraine’s ambassador to the US. According to Zelenskyy, he is grateful to Oksana Markarova for her service and has already discussed future public service opportunities with her.

The President clarified that he would like Markarova to continue working in Ukraine, but the final decision is up to her.

"As for the new ambassador and the Cabinet of Ministers, I’ll be honest: if I decide, and this will happen soon, that representing Ukraine in the US - our key diplomatic post - should be Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, that will undoubtedly lead to serious reshuffling within Ukraine’s government, and for obvious reasons,” he said.

Zelenskyy stressed that the entire Ukrainian budget today is about the war, and the Defense Ministry plays a crucial role.

He emphasized that in this context, it is very important for Ukraine to strengthen its relationship with the US and "not miss the moment."

"Therefore, it is necessary for a person to be strong and to be in the context of the most important things, which is strengthening Ukraine, especially weapons. So, one of my ideas is that the ambassador could be the defense minister. And that would have a significant impact on the government," Zelenskyy explained.

The President also added that Ukraine must "act quickly" to win the fight for independence, and therefore, "it’s necessary to think about reducing the number of institutions".

Change of ambassador to the US

On July 7, a source told RBC-Ukraine that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy plans to replace Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States.

According to the source, the head of state is considering appointing Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to the post. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal was also reportedly among the candidates.

On July 8, sources told RBC-Ukraine that Zelenskyy had discussed with Ambassador Oksana Markarova her departure from the post.