Zelensky to Replace Ambassador Markarova, May Tap Umerov for DC Post

President Volodmyr Zelensky confirmed he would soon replace the Ukrainian ambassador to the US and named Defense Minister Rustem Umerov as a potential replacement on Thursday.

Zelensky reportedly discussed ambassador Oksana Markarova’s replacement during his recent call with US President Donald Trump.  

Zelensky confirmed the decision at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome and named Umerov as a potential candidate, adding that the decision – if in place – will lead to “serious reshuffles” in the government. 

“If I decide, and it will be in the near future, who will represent Ukraine in the United States, that is, our key ambassador will be Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, this will definitely affect serious reshuffles in the Ukrainian government,” the president said.

As for Markarova, Zelensky said he would like her to continue working in Ukraine but will respect her decision. 

“I am open, and I would like her to continue working in Ukraine. But if she decides otherwise, it will be her choice,” Zelensky added. 

Zelensky said there is a need to strengthen ties with the US, and Umerov has the adequate experience. 

“It is very important for us today to strengthen relations with the US, not to lose this moment. And that is why it is necessary for the person to be strong and to be in the context of the most important thing. And this is in the context of strengthening Ukraine. Weapons first of all,” Zelensky said.

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He said talks with US officials would continue, while responding to Donald Trump’s remarks at the G7 urging Russia to “make a deal” with Ukraine.

“And that is why one of my ideas is that this could be the Minister of Defense of Ukraine. And in this regard, it has a great influence on the government,” he added. 

Umerov previously headed the Ukrainian delegations in the direct talks with Russia. 

Other senior officials were also reportedly considered for the role, including Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.

Zelensky, in Rome, suggested that changes and optimizations are needed in wartime.

“This applies not only to the government, but to all institutions. In the current situation, when we have to spend money exclusively on reinforcement, defense, and weapons, it is necessary to think about reducing institutions. We need to reduce what is possible so that processes can be managed faster, with less bureaucracy, and with budget savings,” Zelensky said.