In the theater of the absurd that modern Ukrainian politics has become, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a move worthy of the finest traditions of behind-the-scenes intrigue. By appointing Kyrylo Budanov, the charismatic head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), as the new Head of the Presidential Office, Zelenskyy did not merely replace the scandal-plagued Andriy Yermak, who resigned amid a corruption scandal. He effectively sidelined one of his most serious potential rivals from the pre-election race, where Budanov could have posed a genuine threat to the incumbent. This appointment, announced just before the New Year, looks like a masterful strike aimed at consolidating power at a time when the United States is pushing for elections while the war with Russia continues.

Who Is Kyrylo Budanov: From Frontline Hero to Political Hostage

Kyrylo Budanov, a 40-year-old Kyiv native, is no ordinary bureaucrat in a suit. He is a living symbol of resistance to Russian aggression. A graduate of the Odesa Institute of Ground Forces, Budanov began his career in special forces back in 2007. During the war in Donbas in 2014, he participated in high-risk operations, suffered severe wounds, but survived and continued serving. In 2020, Zelenskyy personally appointed him head of the GUR, where Budanov gained fame for bold actions: from raids on Crimea to operations in Africa and even the elimination of high-ranking Russian officers. His reputation as an “audacious warrior” – combining intellect, courage, and strategic thinking – made him a public favorite. Budanov even found time to take a business strategy course amid the war, adding to his image as a modern leader ready for postwar reconstruction.

But now, heading the Presidential Office – the key body that controls daily policy, appointments, and even corruption schemes – Budanov becomes “Zelenskyy’s man.” This is not just a promotion: it is a trap. As analysts note, such a position automatically associates him with all the government’s failures, from economic problems to the corruption scandals that forced Yermak out. Instead of an independent hero, Budanov is turning into an executor of the president’s will, which will inevitably erode his rating. “Speakers in Africa, ‘coffee in Crimea,’ or dubious defense procurements – it’s all on him now,” whisper insiders, recalling past GUR operations that were not always successful.

Polls as a Mirror: Budanov and Zaluzhnyi – Real Threats to Zelenskyy

Just a month ago, sociological surveys painted a very different picture. According to SOCIS data from December 2025, Zelenskyy led the first round of hypothetical presidential elections with 30.6% support. But in the second round, disaster awaited him: against Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and current ambassador to the United Kingdom, Zelenskyy lost 26% to 43%. And Budanov? In alternative scenarios, he was neck-and-neck with Zelenskyy – 33% to 33%, making him a serious player. Other studies from KIIS or Euronews confirmed: Zaluzhnyi and Budanov are the “military stars” whom Ukrainians see as alternatives to a president weary from war.

These figures are no accident. The war, now in its nearly fourth year, has exhausted society. Zelenskyy, despite his initial popularity, is associated with corruption in his inner circle, mobilization failures, and dependence on Western aid. Zaluzhnyi, dismissed by Zelenskyy in 2024 over “differences,” became a symbol of independence, while Budanov embodies effective intelligence. “If elections happen, as Trump demands, Zelenskyy risks defeat,” notes an Adnkronos poll. The United States, under pressure from the new Trump administration, is insisting on elections, arguing that Kyiv is “using the war to avoid voting.”

Zelenskyy’s Maneuver: Clearing the Field Under Western Pressure

Budanov’s appointment is not just a personnel move. It is part of a broader strategy. Zelenskyy tasked the new Head of the Presidential Office with updating the state’s defense and development strategy, as well as nominating a candidate for Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council. But behind the scenes, it looks like an attempt to neutralize potential rivals. By accepting the offer, Budanov is now tied to Bankova Street – his independent image is melting like snow in January. “This is an anointing, not a promotion,” writes Western analyst Louise Mensch, hinting that Zelenskyy is preparing to step down but wants to control his successor.

Against this backdrop, Ukrainians, the US, and European partners are watching a “great reset.” Yermak left due to corruption, Budanov arrives as a “wartime manager,” and Oleh Ivashchenko, former head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, takes over the GUR. This is a signal: Kyiv is shifting from diplomacy to enhanced security, but with an emphasis on loyalty. Critics see signs of authoritarianism – Zelenskyy is “clearing the field,” as in classic autocracies.

On social media like X (formerly Twitter), the news sparked a storm. “Budanov is the new Head of the OP, Zelenskyy signed the decree,” one user writes, while another adds: “Speakers in Africa or defense purchases – now it’s on him.” Some speculate about “political infighting” and attempts by the Presidential Office to control the security bloc.

Conclusion: Elections or an Illusion of Democracy?

If the elections that the US is actively promoting do take place in 2026, Zelenskyy appears ready for them – with a cleared field and loyal cadres. But will Ukraine benefit? Budanov, a talented intelligence officer, risks losing his heroic aura, turning into a bureaucrat. Zaluzhnyi remains in the game, but will he have enough strength against the Bankova machine? While the war rages and Trump demands “peace,” Zelenskyy is playing chess with his own people. Whether this is a brilliant strategy or a desperate gambit – time will tell. But one thing is clear: in Ukrainian politics, heroes are not spared; they are used.