Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed General Kyrylo Budanov as his chief of staff, emphasizing a renewed focus on security, defense development, and diplomacy. Budanov, previously head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency (GUR), stated his new role is a significant responsibility during a historic time for Ukraine. This appointment follows the dismissal of the previous chief of staff amid corruption investigations and is framed by Zelensky as strengthening the nation's strategic security and achieving results in critical areas.