Zelenskyy reshapes his inner circle as Arakhamia, Budanov and Lytvyn gain influence
NV examined the workings of Ukraine’s presidential offices, speaking with informed lawmakers and experts to determine whose views carry the most weight with Volodymyr Zelenskyy after Andriy Yermak’s dismissal.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expanded his inner circle since the dismissal of chief advisor Andriy Yermak. Kyrylo Budanov, the new presidential chief of staff, and Dmytro Lytvyn, the presidential media adviser, have gained influence in Zelenskyy's decision-making process. However, the most significant beneficiary of Yermak's removal appears to be David Arakhamia, the head of Zelenskyy's Servant of the People faction in parliament.
Arakhamia's voice is now among the most influential in Zelenskyy's circle, although he is not the sole decision-maker. The president relies on multiple sources for advice, but Arakhamia's ability to build relationships with key players, such as Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, has strengthened his position. Arakhamia has also played a crucial role in removing Mykhailo Fedorov from the Defense Ministry.
While Arakhamia is not replacing Yermak, he has become a vital intermediary between Zelenskyy and various factions, including parliament, the defense industry, and the American government.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
