**Ukraine’s US Ambassador Might Get Replaced, Says Source**
A recent phone call between President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked talk of a potential change in Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States. According to a source close to the conversation, the topic was raised by Kyiv as a possible solution that could benefit both sides.
Oksana Markarova has held the position since April 2021 and played a key role in coordinating US military and financial support during the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The new ambassador would likely need to be familiar with the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly given the current state of relations between Kyiv and Washington.
Several strong candidates are reportedly being considered for the post, including Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko. However, when contacted by the Kyiv Independent, a spokesperson for Stefanishyna said that they “do not comment on rumors.”
**Tensions Between Ukraine and US Rise**
The possible reshuffle comes at a time of renewed tension between Kyiv and Washington. The U.S. Defense Department recently paused shipments of critical weapons systems to Ukraine, including Patriot missiles and precision-guided munitions, sparking concern in the Ukrainian capital.
This move has coincided with longstanding speculation about a broader government reshuffle. Rumors have circulated since last summer that Prime Minister Shmyhal might be replaced, but Zelensky’s September 2024 reshuffling of officials did not include him.
**Potential Candidates Face Criticism**
Halushchenko, one of the potential candidates for ambassador, has faced criticism in parliament over allegations of corruption. Meanwhile, Umerov has been involved in peace talks with Russia during the early stages of the full-scale war.
The current defense minister was appointed to his post just last September and previously served as a member of parliament for an opposition party called Voice (Holos). If confirmed as ambassador, he would likely face significant scrutiny over his past roles and decisions.
**Background on Ukraine’s Government**
Prime Minister Shmyhal has been in office since March 2020 and overseen reforms and wartime crises. He previously held key positions such as Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast Governor and Vice Prime Minister.
Stefanishyna, another potential candidate, is a seasoned Ukrainian diplomat with expertise in European integration. She was appointed Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration – Justice Minister last September.
**Why the Change Might Happen**
Kyiv is seeking to strengthen its diplomatic ties with Washington, and the move could be seen as an attempt to improve relations between the two countries. While some may view it as a necessary step, others might see it as a sign of instability or disarray within Ukraine’s government.
In response to this news, U.S. President Donald Trump called his recent phone call with Zelensky “the best conversation in all this time.” Trump also echoed the sentiment that their exchange was “very strategic.”
**The Future of Diplomatic Relations**
As tensions rise between Kyiv and Washington, it remains unclear how a change in ambassador would impact relations between the two nations. What is clear, however, is that Ukraine’s current government is taking steps to address these issues head-on.
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