Zelenskyy plans bold reshuffle in defense leadership to boost Ukraine's US relations
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov (t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official)
Ukraine needs new steps in managing the country's defense sector. Decisions on this matter will be announced soon, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
On July 12, Zelenskyy held a meeting with Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. After the meeting, the President hinted at potential personnel changes in state institutions.
"Ukraine needs more positive momentum in relations with the United States, and at the same time, new steps are required in managing our national defense sector," Zelenskyy said.
He emphasized that relevant decisions would be made public shortly.
Umerov may become Ukraine's Ambassador to the US
Earlier this week, it became known that Ukraine's Ambassador to the US, Oksana Markarova, is stepping down. Against this backdrop, discussions have begun over who will replace her.
On July 10, President Zelenskyy suggested that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov could be appointed as the new Ambassador in Washington.
He added, however, that if that decision is made, Ukraine would see major personnel changes in the Cabinet of Ministers.
Sources previously told RBC-Ukraine that other candidates are also being considered. In addition to Umerov, potential contenders include Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.
According to a well-informed RBC-Ukraine source, appointing Umerov as Ambassador to the US could trigger a rapid Cabinet reshuffle.
