Zelensky appointed Budanov as the new head of the Office of the President: what does it mean

Policy 03.01.2026 - 02:45 301 viewed

03.01.2026 - 02:45 301 viewed

Володимир Зеленський призначив нового керівника Офісу Президента: які зміни це внесе в політику держави. Photo: Главком

Appointment of Kyrylo Budanov

According to Главком: Volodymyr Zelensky appointed Kyrylo Budanov as the new head of the Office of the President, replacing Andriy Yermak. The President expects Budanov to focus on security and diplomatic issues. This appointment took place on January 2, 2026, marking a significant change in the president's administration.

Biography and Career

Kyrylo Budanov was born on January 4, 1986, in Kyiv. He graduated from the Faculty of Airborne Troops of the Odesa Institute of Land Forces in 2007. Since 2014, Budanov has participated in combat actions in Donbas, and in 2016, he was involved in the special operation 'Raid into Crimea'. His career in intelligence began in 2020 when he became the deputy director of the Foreign Intelligence Service department. In August of that year, Budanov was appointed head of military intelligence, indicating his significant role in Ukraine's security.

An important aspect of his personal life is that in November 2023, his wife Marianna experienced heavy metal poisoning. Budanov also continues his studies: he graduated from the military-diplomatic academy in 2022 and entered the postgraduate program at Ostroh Academy in 2023. These facts indicate his professional development and dedication to his work.

With Budanov's appointment to the new position, expectations regarding strengthening the country's security and activating diplomatic efforts are associated. Whether he will become a 'chatty intelligence officer' in his new role or will start 'Operation Successor?' time will tell.

The appointment of Kyrylo Budanov as the head of the Office of the President emphasizes the growing importance of security and international diplomacy issues in Ukraine's politics, especially amid the current geopolitical situation.

Given his experience in military intelligence and participation in combat actions, Budanov has the potential to implement new strategies that could impact the country's foreign policy.