During a press conference in Rome, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he is considering the current Defense Minister, Rustem Umerov, for the role of Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to Yevropeiska Pravda.
According to Zelensky, appointing Umerov would significantly impact the composition of the Ukrainian Cabinet, as such a change would inevitably trigger shifts within the government. He emphasized that the final decision is expected in the near future.
“If I decide that representing Ukraine in the United States of America—our key ambassadorial post—will be carried out by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, this will certainly lead to serious changes within the Ukrainian Cabinet,” the president said.
He explained that the primary reason for this consideration is the ongoing war with Russia, which deeply influences all decision-making and budgetary planning. Zelensky stressed the need for a strong and influential representative in Washington under such conditions.
The president also confirmed his intention to replace the current Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, Oksana Markarova. He expressed his gratitude for her service and said he hopes she will continue her work in Ukraine.
“I’ve been in contact with her. A lot depends on her personally. I’m open. I would like her to work in Ukraine. But if she decides differently, that will be her choice,” Zelensky added.
Earlier we wrote that EU drops translator after note-taking incident at Zelensky summit.