Sat Jan 03 02:02:20 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article re-write:

Summary:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to replace his Defense Minister, Denys Shmyhal, after only six months in the role. He has offered the position to Mykhailo Fedorov, the current Minister of Digital Transformation. Zelenskyy cited Fedorov’s experience with drones and digitalization as key reasons for the nomination. Shmyhal has been offered another, unspecified, “important” government role. Additionally, Zelenskyy has appointed military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov to head the presidential office, replacing Andriy Yermak, who was reportedly caught up in a corruption scandal.

News Article:

Zelenskyy Announces Shakeup in Ukrainian Government, Nominates 34-Year-Old Fedorov as Defense Minister

Kyiv, Ukraine – January 3, 2026 – In a surprising move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced sweeping changes to his administration on Friday, January 2, 2026, including the planned replacement of Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal. Zelenskyy has offered the key position to Mykhailo Fedorov, the current Minister of Digital Transformation.

In a statement broadcast on social media, Zelenskyy stated, “I have decided to change the structure of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. I have offered Mikhailo Fedorov the position of new Ukrainian Defence Minister.”

Fedorov, a relatively young political figure at age 34, has been praised for his work in digitizing state services and his expertise in drone technology. Zelenskyy emphasized these qualifications as crucial given the ongoing conflict.

The reason for Shmyhal’s removal after only six months in the role was not directly addressed. However, Zelenskyy stated that the incumbent would be offered another, “no less important,” position within the government.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the current head of Ukrainian military intelligence, as the new head of the presidential office. Budanov replaces Andriy Yermak, who has been embroiled in recent corruption allegations that have impacted several former allies of the President.

These changes signal a significant shift in Zelenskyy’s administration as Ukraine continues to navigate the ongoing conflict and focus on modernization and addressing issues of corruption.

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