Zelensky Presents Klymenko as New NSDC Secretary, with Winter Defense and Sanctions at the Forefront

New Leadership for Ukraine’s National Security Council

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: The announcement arrives as Ukraine gears up for the winter period, with security coordination taking center stage. President Volodymyr Zelensky has formally presented Ihor Klymenko as the new secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC), a role previously held by Rustem Umerov. Klymenko’s background includes serving as Ukraine’s interior minister, where he was responsible for overseeing the National Guard, the National Police, the State Border Guard Service, the State Migration Service, and the State Emergency Service.

In his remarks, Zelensky identified three principal areas of focus for the NSDC: coordinating Ukraine’s protection through the winter, maintaining sanctions pressure against Russia, and strengthening cooperation with the United States and the EU on arms exports. The president also highlighted the need to upgrade air defense, with special attention to anti-ballistic missile capabilities and the FREYJA program, and to intensify the fight against Russian propaganda.

“We already know what challenges winter holds for us,” Zelensky said. “But we have no intention of yielding or handing over our country to anyone, so we will keep fighting through the winter.”

Klymenko’s Priorities and Immediate Steps

Klymenko thanked his predecessor for the work done and signaled his intention to carry that work forward. “First and foremost, we need to strengthen and coordinate the efforts of all security and defense forces, the entire ecosystem of the state,” he said. “We have already begun this work today.”

He stressed the importance of winter preparedness, along with cyber defense, cybersecurity, and information security, saying these areas would contribute to a stronger Ukraine. Klymenko noted that conversations have already been held with regional leaders about implementing resilience plans in the face of winter threats.

Overall, the new NSDC secretary said that preparing for winter and unifying the work of all institutions responsible for state security are now at the top of the agenda.

The appointment reflects Ukraine’s push to tighten national security management amid growing threats from Russia. Ensuring close coordination between domestic agencies and international partners is seen as a key part of the country’s strategy to remain stable and protected in the coming months.

As Klymenko steps into his new role, understanding the broader context of his appointment is crucial. The formal presentation by Zelensky not only marks a significant leadership change but also underscores the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces. For a deeper insight into the implications of Klymenko's selection and the strategic direction of the NSDC, you can read more in our detailed coverage here.