Zelenskyy Appoints Kyrylo Budanov as Chief of Staff to Seal 2026 Peace Deal
On Jan 2, 2026, President Zelenskyy appoints Kyrylo Budanov as Chief of Staff. This comes as a 20-point peace deal with Russia is 90% ready.
A peace deal is 90% ready. Volodymyr Zelenskyy just tapped his top spy chief, Kyrylo Budanov, to lead the final charge toward ending the nearly four-year war with Russia. The move signals a major shift in Kyiv's strategy as it moves from the battlefield to the bargaining table.
Strategic Shift: Why Zelenskyy Appoints Kyrylo Budanov
The announcement came on January 2, 2026, just days after Zelenskyy confirmed that a US-brokered 20-point plan to end the conflict is nearing completion. Zelenskyy stated that the President's Office will now focus primarily on security, defense development, and diplomatic negotiations. He believes Budanov has the "strength to deliver results" in these critical areas.
Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues, the development of the Defence and Security Forces... Kyrylo has specialized experience in these areas and sufficient strength to deliver results.
Replacing the Divisive Andriy Yermak
Budanov steps into the role previously held by Andriy Yermak, who resigned in November 2025. Yermak's departure followed a high-profile corruption probe that included a raid on his home. While Yermak was a key negotiator, his influence was often criticized by opponents who accused him of sidelining critical voices and monopolizing power.
Budanov, at 39, has led the GUR (Main Intelligence Directorate) since 2020. He's gained international fame for orchestrating daring operations against Russian targets, earning him the title 'Hero of Ukraine'.
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