Oksana Stefanishyna previously held the position of Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States until her dismissal on August 3, leaving the role vacant since then.
President Volodymyr Zelensky stated, “Regarding the questions about candidates for the ambassador to the United States, it is indeed vital for Ukraine. We are approaching the unblocking of the negotiation process. We need a U.S. ambassador, and we need Patriots, meaning we need a lot of support, and the ambassador is essential. It is very important not to make a mistake here.”
He mentioned that while there are several candidates being considered, he refrained from disclosing their names.
“Firstly, I need to receive a detailed background check. Not just from the Security Service of Ukraine, but also from NABU. We will make decisions after waiting for additional information,” the president noted.
Context
- Zelensky initially planned for Yulia Svyrydenko, who resigned as Prime Minister in July, to become the new U.S. ambassador. However, reports indicate she declined the offer. There have also been speculations about appointing Rustem Umierov (former Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, now head of the Foreign Intelligence Service) and Pavlo Palisa (Deputy Head of the President’s Office) to this position.
