Ex-foreign minister Kuleba may become Ukraine's ambassador to US, sources say

Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba could be appointed as the country's next ambassador to the United States, according to sources familiar with the matter. The position has been vacant for weeks following Olha Stefanishyna's departure amid a corruption investigation. Initially, President Volodymyr Zelensky intended to send Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko to Washington, but she declined the offer, prompting the presidential administration to seek an alternative candidate.

Kuleba, who served as foreign minister from March 2020 to September 2024, has now emerged as a potential replacement. However, it remains uncertain whether he is willing to accept the position. Kuleba gained prominence as one of Ukraine's most recognizable faces abroad during Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, particularly in his efforts to secure weapons from Western governments.

One source noted that Ukraine seeks a U.S. counterpart who can effectively communicate with think tanks and gain public approval. The key concern surrounding Kuleba's potential appointment is whether he genuinely desires the role. Kuleba had expressed a desire to remain in Kyiv after he was removed from his post as the head of President Yermak's office, which expanded its influence over foreign policy.

Ukraine was also considering Deputy President's Office Head and former commander Pavlo Palisa for the Washington post, who has gained recognition within Zelensky's team, especially for coordinating the President's Office work with Ukraine's military leadership. However, Palisa reportedly was not enthusiastic about the prospect. As of now, there is no definitive timeline for the appointment, leaving an important diplomatic post in Ukraine's foreign relations open.