Intelligence chief accepts Zelenskyy’s offer to lead Ukraine presidential office UPDATED

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate, has confirmed that he accepted President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s offer to lead the presidential office of Ukraine.

Budanov wrote on his Facebook page that he views the position as another milestone of responsibility to the country, Caliber.Az reports.

“For me, it is an honour and a responsibility—at a historic moment for Ukraine—to focus on the critically important issues of our state’s strategic security,” Budanov emphasised.

He added that they must continue to do their part—to defeat the enemy, defend Ukraine, and work to achieve a just peace—and called on everyone to continue fighting together for a free and secure future for Ukraine.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has offered Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), the position of leading the presidential office.

Writing on his Telegram channel, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine now requires greater focus on security issues, the development of the Armed Forces, and diplomatic negotiations, adding that the presidential office will primarily serve these state priorities, Caliber.Az reports.

“Kyrylo has specialised experience in these areas and the capacity to deliver results. I have also tasked the new head of the presidential office, in coordination with the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council and other key officials and institutions, to update and submit for approval the Strategic Foundations of Defence and State Development and the next steps,” Zelenskyy said.

Kyrylo Budanov is Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, appointed head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence in August 2020 after a long career in Ukraine’s military intelligence.

He joined Ukraine’s military intelligence in 2007, fought in the Russo‑Ukrainian War since 2014 including special operations and was wounded multiple times in combat.

Budanov holds advanced military and strategic education, has led Ukraine’s prisoner‑exchange coordination and was awarded the Hero of Ukraine medal for personal courage and service.

By Jeyhun Aghazada