Figure of Trust: Why Zelensky Bets on Budanov in Dialogue with the USA

The appointment of General Kyrylo Budanov and his participation in negotiations with the United States have become part of a broader political and diplomatic context. According to experts, this figure seamlessly “integrates” into discussions aimed at finding a way out of the war unleashed by Russian aggression and building a long-term security strategy for Ukraine.

This is not a symbolic step. The decision of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to transfer Budanov to a new position emphasizes that the focus is on people with real experience in war, intelligence, and interaction with key partners.

An Appointment That Changes the Power Configuration

The signing of the decree appointing Kyrylo Budanov as the new head of the President’s Office has become one of the most discussed personnel decisions at the beginning of the year. Before this, he headed the Main Intelligence Directorate and was considered one of the most secretive yet influential figures in the Ukrainian security system.

Experts note that Budanov’s transition to the center of political management may change the balance within the government. His experience is not a cabinet career but years of work in conditions of real war, constant pressure, and tough decisions.

From Intelligence to Strategic Management

As the head of military intelligence, Budanov established himself as a leader capable of quickly adapting to changing circumstances. Under his leadership, the Main Intelligence Directorate was associated with daring operations, deep analytics, and active work behind enemy lines.

Now this experience is being transferred to the field of strategic management. The combination of political planning and intelligence thinking, according to analysts, can enhance the quality of decisions made at the highest level.

Contacts with the US as a Key Resource

Particular attention was drawn to Budanov’s participation in negotiations with American partners. This fact is seen as a signal of trust — both from the Ukrainian leadership and from Washington.

Western media, including The New York Times, point to Budanov’s long-standing and deep ties with American security structures. Even before the full-scale invasion, he was integrated into cooperation programs with the US intelligence community and underwent professional training with the support of the CIA.

After being wounded in Donbas, Budanov underwent rehabilitation at the Walter Reed Medical Center — access that, as journalists emphasize, is granted to only a few foreign military personnel. This fact became an additional marker of the level of trust.

International Effect and Internal Logic

Budanov’s participation in negotiations with the US strengthens Ukraine’s positions on the international stage. It is not only about military assistance but also about a broader dialogue — the timing, formats, and conditions of possible political agreements.

At the same time, within the country, this appointment may have a different effect. Budanov’s departure from direct leadership of the Main Intelligence Directorate, according to experts, will lead to significant reshuffles in the intelligence system and may cause internal “tremors” in the security sector.

Political Moment and the Factor of Future Elections

The transfer of one of Ukraine’s most famous generals to a political position occurs at a time when the prospect of elections is increasingly discussed in expert circles — in the event of a hypothetical truce with Moscow.

In this context, Budanov is seen not as a temporary figure but as an element of a long-term structure. He himself confirmed that he agreed to head the President’s Office at Zelensky’s proposal, calling this position a new level of responsibility.

Focus on Security and Strategy

In his public statements, Budanov emphasizes that he perceives the new role as an opportunity to focus on key issues of the state’s strategic security. He thanked the president for his trust and stated his intention to continue working for the protection of the country and the achievement of a just peace.

For external partners, this means predictability and professionalism. For internal politics, it means strengthening the role of military and intelligence experience in decision-making.

It is precisely such personnel steps that today shape not only the Ukrainian agenda but also international discussions, which are closely watched in the region. Including in Israel, where issues of security, war, and diplomacy are viewed through the prism of their own experience and risks — a context consistently analyzed by NAnews — News of Israel | Nikk.Agency.