Zelenskyy's Deliberation on the Head of the President's Office

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has recently faced the challenge of appointing a new head for the Office of the President following the dismissal of Andriy Yermak. This decision, formalized through decree No. 868/2025, has left the position vacant for over ten days, prompting discussions about its necessity and the potential candidates for the role.

Zelenskyy postponed the appointment of a new head of the Presidential Office until his return from abroad - MPIt's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy"I can get used to it": Zelenskyy stated that he can do without the head of the President’s Office

Zelenskyy announced that he would postpone any decisions regarding the new head of the Office until his return from a foreign visit. People's Deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak indicated that the country has managed without a head for the Office during this interim period, suggesting that the position may not be critical. Zelenskyy himself remarked on the situation, stating, "Honestly, the war is much more important," emphasizing that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine takes precedence over the appointment.

Zelenskyy postponed the appointment of a new head of the Presidential Office until his return from abroad - MP

Among the candidates for the head of the President's Office are Minister of Defense Denys Shmyhal and First Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. However, Zelenskyy expressed concerns about the feasibility of appointing these individuals, noting that their dismissal from their current roles would require parliamentary approval. He likened the situation to a game of "Jenga," where removing one piece could lead to instability in the government.

It's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy

In addition to Shmyhal and Fedorov, other potential candidates mentioned include Kyrylo Budanov, Dmytro Kyslytsya, and Andrii Palisa. Each candidate brings specific expertise, but Zelenskyy acknowledged the complexities involved in their appointments, particularly regarding the current political landscape and the ongoing war.

"I can get used to it": Zelenskyy stated that he can do without the head of the President’s Office

Zelenskyy conveyed a pragmatic approach to the leadership vacuum, stating, "I can get used to it," implying that he could manage state affairs without a head for the Office. He highlighted the importance of other governmental institutions, particularly the Ministry of Defense, which he considers a priority during the ongoing conflict. This sentiment reflects a broader perspective on governance, suggesting that while the President's Office is significant, it is not the sole focus of his administration.

"I can get used to it": Zelenskyy stated that he can do without the head of the President’s Office

The decision to delay the appointment has drawn mixed reactions. Some critics argue that the absence of a head for the President's Office could lead to a lack of direction in governance, especially during a time of war. Others, however, support Zelenskyy's prioritization of the Ministry of Defense and the ongoing war effort over filling the position immediately.

It's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy

Zelenskyy has reiterated the importance of making a well-considered decision regarding the head of the President's Office, emphasizing that the ongoing war necessitates a focus on critical leadership roles. He has also indicated that the Verkhovna Rada may struggle to identify suitable candidates for various ministerial positions, including Justice and Energy.

It's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy

• "Honestly, the war is much more important." — Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

It's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy

• "If it takes too long, I’ll get used to managing without the head of the Office." — Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

Zelenskyy postponed the appointment of a new head of the Presidential Office until his return from abroad - MP

In summary, President Zelenskyy's approach to appointing a new head for the Office of the President reflects a careful consideration of the current political and military landscape in Ukraine. The ongoing war remains a central concern, influencing both the urgency and the nature of leadership decisions within his administration.

It's easier to liquidate the Office than to appoint its head - Zelenskyy