Zelensky Names Fedorov Defense Minister, Budanov Chief of Staff

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a major government reshuffle on Friday, appointing First Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov as the new defense minister and military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as head of the presidential office. The moves, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities and security focus amid the ongoing war with Russia, come as the country navigates corruption investigations and diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

Fedorov, 34, who currently serves as minister of digital transformation, will replace Denys Shmyhal, whose tenure as defense minister lasted less than six months. Zelensky praised Fedorov in a nightly video address for his expertise in drone development and digitalizing state services, calling him deeply engaged in initiatives crucial to national defense. "Mykhailo works very effectively on the digitalization of state services and processes," Zelensky said. "Together with all our military personnel, military command, national weapons manufacturers and Ukraine's partners, we must implement changes in the defense sector that will truly help." Shmyhal, a former prime minister, received commendation from Zelensky for...