Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Rustem Umerov as the new head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, marking the latest move in a sweeping cabinet reshuffle.
Umerov, formerly the secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, is also a key figure in Kyiv’s peace negotiations with Moscow.
The appointment was confirmed on 3 August, signaling a consolidation of security and diplomatic oversight under a single trusted ally.
The leadership change comes amid ongoing political turbulence within the Ukrainian government.
Zelenskyy recently dismissed Mykhailo Fedorov from his post as defense minister, a move that has triggered a protracted political crisis.
Reports indicate that Fedorov has declined an offer to become prime minister, complicating efforts to stabilize the administration.