Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a significant change in the country's security apparatus by replacing a key security official in the midst of escalating tensions with Russian forces. Zelenskyy announced the dismissal of Oleksii Danilov, who previously served as the secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, in a video address on Tuesday.
While the president did not provide a specific reason for the decision, he expressed gratitude for Danilov's service and mentioned that Danilov would be reassigned to a different role. Taking over the position is Oleksandr Lytvynenko, the former head of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service.
The National Security Council, chaired by Zelenskyy, plays a crucial role in policy coordination and decision-making. Danilov had been in his role since October 2019, shortly after Zelenskyy assumed office as president.
The reshuffle comes at a critical juncture as Ukrainian troops, facing challenges such as personnel shortages and limited ammunition, confront mounting pressure from Russian forces along the extensive front line spanning over 1,000 kilometers.
This recent change follows Zelenskyy's earlier decision in February to replace the country's chief military officer, Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, with Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi. The decision to remove Zaluzhnyi stemmed from tensions between him and the president, particularly after Ukraine's anticipated 2023 counteroffensive fell short of its objectives.
Subsequently, Zaluzhnyi was appointed as Ukraine's ambassador to the United Kingdom, marking a significant shift in key leadership positions within the Ukrainian government.
The reshuffling of security officials underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in navigating complex security dynamics and responding to external threats, particularly in the context of heightened tensions with Russia.
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