Ukraine’s UK envoy dismisses reports of early departure

Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Valeriy Zaluzhny, has no plans to leave his post in early January and continues to carry out his duties in London, Zaluzhny’s media advisor, Oksana Torop stated.

As Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media, Torop addressed recent media rumors regarding the ambassador’s alleged intention to resign.

“As always, unnamed sources know everything about Zaluzhny and his plans. But nothing has changed. He continues to defend the interests of Ukraine as ambassador to the United Kingdom,” Torop emphasized.

Earlier reports had suggested that Zaluzhny might step down from his diplomatic position next month.

Sources close to the Office of the President say that Zaluzhny had informed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of his intention to resign several weeks ago during a visit to Kyiv.

The sources cited also said that possible future roles for General Zaluzhny were discussed with the president, including prime minister and head of the Office of the President.

For context, in February 2024, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Zaluzhny from his role as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, appointing Colonel General Oleksandr Syrsky as his successor.

For at least the past six months, Zaluzhny has been the subject of rumors that he is planning to launch a campaign for the presidency as soon as conditions allow for elections in Ukraine – i.e. a ceasefire.

The Guardian newspaper reported that US Vice President Vance had contacted Zaluzhny shortly after the infamous “Oval Office debacle” in February, when Vance laced into President Zelenskyy for his perceived ingratitude. The “outreach” was interpreted by many as an attempt to undermine Zelenskyy. Zaluzhny refused to take any calls from Vance, presumably to not fuel rumors that the former general might oppose Zelenskyy in the future.

By Vafa Guliyeva