Ukraine shake-up will exchange protection minister, Zelensky adviser says
Budanov is thought for having accurately predicted Russia’s full-scale assault on Ukraine when most officers thought any Russian incursions could be a lot smaller in scope. He carries affect with Zelensky and different officers.
Reznikov, a politician who grew to become protection minister in November 2021, will likely be named minister for strategic industries to strengthen military-industrial cooperation, Arakhamia stated, calling the strikes “absolutely logical for wartime.” The 37-year-old Budanov, whose résumé contains particular operations and dodging assassination makes an attempt, has risen rapidly via the ranks to develop into one in all Ukraine’s youngest generals.
“War dictates personnel policy. Time and circumstances call for strengthening and regrouping. This is happening now and will continue to happen in the future,” Arakhamia stated on Telegram, writing in Ukrainian.
Such choices come from the president, however members of parliament should vote on the proposed modifications. The shake-up comes amid a wider crackdown on corruption in Ukraine that has included different dismissals and investigations.
The Protection Ministry had been beneath scrutiny for misappropriation of funds after Ukrainian journalists reported that the navy had paid inflated costs for meals.
Reznikov was not implicated, and support from Western international locations was not concerned, however with ministerial modifications, Zelensky is trying to reassure the USA and different allies that their support gained’t be mishandled. The protection minister performs a key function in negotiating with different international locations for support, together with weapons.
Neither Zelensky nor Reznikov commented Sunday afternoon after the announcement, although Reznikov hinted at a possible change earlier within the day. At a information convention Sunday, Reznikov acknowledged experiences of his potential departure from the protection minister put up, however stated that might be Zelensky’s determination.
“No authority sits in the same chair for their entire life, so you have to be prepared for this fate,” Reznikov stated. “As a former lawyer, I’m optimistic that even if I’m not in this role, I’ll have a role that will allow me to punish the Russians.”
The anticipated modifications come as Russian forces elevated assaults in Ukraine’s disputed Donetsk area in latest days. Ukraine has warned that Russia plans to launch a brand new offensive within the coming weeks as the primary anniversary of the battle looms.
Arakhamia additionally stated the administration will transfer to make Ihor Klymenko inner affairs minister and Vasyl Malyuk head of the SBU, Ukraine’s safety service. Each are already holding these roles in performing positions.
“The logic is the same,” Arakhamia said. “Law enforcement agencies at this stage should be headed not by politicians, but by cadre law enforcement officers. The enemy is preparing to advance. We are preparing to defend ourselves.”