President Zelensky has proposed Mykhailo Fedorov as Ukraine's new Defense Minister.
The President noted that Fedorov is "deeply involved in drone-related issues and works very effectively in the digitalization of government services and processes." Zelensky emphasized the need to implement defense sector reforms in coordination with military leadership and domestic arms manufacturers.
In announcing the decision, the President also reviewed the Ministry of Defense's recent performance, noting that the December target for interceptor drone production—over 1,000 per day—had been met. "Mykhailo Fedorov will be able to implement all this and bring a technological edge," Zelensky said.
Denys Shmyhal will remain part of the team; the President thanked him for his systematic work and offered him a leadership role in another area.
Zelensky also addressed other personnel changes in his address. Regarding the appointment of Kyrylo Budanov as Head of the Office of the President, he noted: "Kyrylo has enough experience and strength to focus the Office's work on security issues and the negotiation process." Oleh Ivashchenko will take over the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), while a decision regarding the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) will be made soon.
The President announced further changes and an upcoming meeting of security advisors in a "Europe plus USA" format.
