Zelenskyy considers Rustem Umerov for foreign intelligence chief in major security shuffle

On August 3, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Rustem Umerov to head the Foreign Intelligence Service, according to a decree published on the President's Office website. The appointment comes at a critical time for Ukraine as the country seeks to coordinate efforts with its allies and work towards ending the war.

During the annual meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors in Kyiv, Zelenskyy stated that Umerov will be responsible for continuing diplomatic efforts and advancing security cooperation between Ukraine and foreign nations. Prior to his appointment, Umerov served as the country's defense minister from 2023 to 2025. Zelenskyy had previously considered offering the position of National Security and Defense Council secretary to former Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, but ultimately chose Umerov for the role.

Umerov's new responsibilities include focusing on negotiations with international partners, strengthening ties between Ukraine's intelligence agencies and those of allied countries, and implementing initiatives such as the Drone Deals program and Ukraine's Freya antiballistic shield. Zelenskyy's decision to appoint Umerov to this key position was made public on July 24, along with the updated operating principles and areas of responsibility for the council.