Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence (GUR), as his new chief of staff. Budanov, 39, replaces Andriy Yermak, who resigned in November amid a corruption scandal. Zelenskyy stated that Budanov's specialized experience in security and diplomacy is needed at this critical time. Budanov, known for his role in operations against Russia and prisoner exchanges, accepted the offer, emphasizing his focus on strategic security for Ukraine during the ongoing conflict.