Spy Chief Takes Charge: Zelensky Names Intelligence Head as Top Aide

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed his military spy chief to a powerful new role. On Friday, Zelensky named Kyrylo Budanov as his new chief of staff. Budanov is the head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency, known as the GUR. He replaces the president's previous top aide, who resigned in November. That resignation was linked to a corruption scandal. The chief of staff is a key position. It controls the presidential office's operations and access to the leader. Budanov's agency has been credited with successful operations against Russian forces. His move to a central administrative role is a major shift. This appointment places a figure from the security sector at the heart of Zelensky's civilian administration.