The departure of Andrey Yermak from his post as head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office and his replacement by Kirill Budanov*, the chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate, could trigger sweeping changes in Ukrainian politics-changes described as comparable to a «tectonic shift». This assessment was outlined in a report published by Politico.

The article points out that Budanov* ultimately outmaneuvered Yermak, who had reportedly tried more than once to sideline him, viewing the intelligence chief as a political rival. Now elevated to one of the most influential positions in the Ukrainian power structure, the former head of military intelligence faces the challenge of applying that same political skill to a far broader agenda. One of his key tasks, according to the publication, will be helping President Vladimir Zelensky avoid friction with U. S. President Donald Trump.

As Politico notes, Budanov* will need the same level of political intuition that allowed him to outplay Yermak in order to navigate the complexities of his new role. Beyond foreign relations, he will also have to manage serious domestic challenges, including what the article describes as a widening gap between the presidency, parliament, and civil society.

Another sensitive test could arise if Zelensky is ultimately pressured into accepting Russia’s terms for a peace agreement. In that scenario, Budanov* would be expected to persuade the Ukrainian public that such a decision is justified. A senior Ukrainian official quoted by the outlet said Budanov’s* arrival at the Presidential Office is likely to inject new momentum into the work of the administration.

The same source suggested that Budanov’s* management style would differ sharply from that of his predecessor. Rather than acting as a central power broker tightly controlling every process, he is expected to focus primarily on national security issues, give ministers more autonomy, and reduce micromanagement from the center. This shift, the official argued, could ease the concentration of power around the presidency.

Zelensky signed the decree appointing Kirill Budanov* as head of the Presidential Office on January 2, 2026, formally replacing Andrey Yermak, who was dismissed following a corruption scandal. Media reports indicated that the decision was made under pressure from the U.S. administration.

*Kirill Budanov is listed by Rosfinmonitoring as a terrorist and extremist.