KYIV, Jan 2
Reuters
—
President Volodymyr Zelensky named Ukraine’s defense spy chief as his top adviser on Friday, placing a popular military leader at the heart of decision-making as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its defenses against Russia and its hand in US-backed peace talks.
The appointment of Kyrylo Budanov, a decorated war veteran widely respected by Ukrainians, as presidential chief of staff marks a significant shift for a position traditionally occupied by a civilian mainly focused on domestic politics.
Budanov, 39, replaces longtime Zelensky confidante Andriy Yermak, a widely criticized power broker who resigned in November amid a corruption scandal that fueled…
