Zelenskyy puts Umerov in charge of foreign intelligence despite critics’ doubts

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Rustem Umerov as the new leader of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service. Umerov, who previously served as secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, was appointed to the position on August 3. The agency, which had been without a permanent chief for over six months, now has Umerov overseeing it.

Zelenskyy stated that Umerov will coordinate new drone agreements and continue his diplomatic work, including negotiations with the United States. Umerov's appointment has been met with criticism, with experts and lawmakers questioning his qualifications for the role and the decision's implications for the intelligence service. Some argue that Umerov's appointment is a way for Zelenskyy to keep him close due to his loyalty, while others believe it highlights the agency's weakened state and the need for a more qualified leader.