Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy appointed Kyrylo Budanov, head of the country's military intelligence directorate, as the new Head of the Office of the President, citing the need for greater focus on security and diplomatic negotiations.

"At this time, Ukraine needs greater focus on security issues, the development of the Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine, as well as on the diplomatic track of negotiations, and the Office of the President will primarily serve the fulfillment of these tasks of our state," Zelenskiy wrote on social media platform X on January 2.

Budanov has led Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) since August 2020, overseeing operations including strikes on Russian territory, prisoner exchanges and intelligence gathering during the war with Russia.

The 39-year-old colonel has become one of Ukraine's most prominent military figures since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Zelenskiy said Budanov "has specialized experience in these areas and sufficient strength to deliver results".

The president tasked the new head of the presidential office to cooperate with the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council and other leaders to update and submit for approval the strategic foundations of Ukraine's defence and development.

The position previously was held by Andriy Yermak, though Zelenskiy's announcement did not specify whether Budanov would replace Yermak or assume a newly structured role.