On December 31, Ukraine saw significant staff changes: Kyrylo Budanov was appointed Head of the President’s Office, with new leaders for intelligence agencies and the State Border Service. In discussion with expert Valeriy Kluchok, the context and possible consequences of these changes were examined.
The key question concerns whether Budanov’s appointment is linked to upcoming security talks and potential war freeze negotiations. The expert notes that while the appointment was not formally timed to coincide with the security advisors' meeting in Kyiv, it strengthens government positions in dialogue with international partners, especially the US.
Budanov is a prominent public military figure considered to have high trust levels among Ukrainians and political ambitions. His move from military intelligence to the President’s Office could shift the balance of power in Ukrainian politics. The changes in heads of the intelligence services and the State Border Service are seen as consolidating President Zelenskyy's control over the security bloc.
Kluchok points out that these personnel reshuffles occur under growing external pressure, particularly from the US and Europe, who demand dialogue and compromises to end the war. He suggests that delaying negotiations benefits Ukraine by weakening Russia’s position, but preparations for elections and political competition continue.
Changes in intelligence agencies, according to the expert, show an intent to make them less public. In summary, Kluchok states that the ongoing processes illustrate both the struggle for power and the desire to protect Ukraine from making unfavorable decisions regarding war settlement.
