During a press briefing in Rome on July 10, President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed he is thinking about naming Defense Minister Rustem Umerov as Ukraine’s new ambassador to the United States.
Zelensky also confirmed that current ambassador Oksana Markarova, who has served in Washington since 2021, will soon be replaced. A final decision on her successor is expected shortly.
Explaining his reasoning, Zelensky emphasized the need for a strong representative who understands the critical task of bolstering Ukraine’s defense—particularly through securing military aid. He noted that one option being considered is appointing the current defense minister to the role.
Just days after a Bloomberg report suggested Rustem Umerov was among Kyiv’s potential picks for the U.S. ambassador role, alongside Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko, President Zelensky addressed the matter publicly.
A source close to the discussions told the Kyiv Independent on July 7 that Zelensky had spoken with U.S. President Donald Trump and mentioned the possibility of a new ambassador. The source noted that Ukraine initiated the conversation and proposed that the change might be mutually beneficial, also confirming that several highly qualified individuals are being considered.
Zelensky acknowledged Oksana Markarova’s contributions, expressing his thanks for her dedication and work as ambassador. As for her future, much will depend on her own decisions… I would like her to remain active in Ukraine’s public service.”
With talk of a broader cabinet reshuffle gaining traction, the president hasn’t dismissed the possibility of major shifts within the government should Umerov be chosen for the diplomatic post.
“If I decide that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will take on the role of ambassador to the U.S., which is a key position, that would trigger significant changes within the administration,” Zelensky stated.
In September 2023, Umerov took over as Ukraine’s Minister of Defense. Before that, he held roles in parliament, led the State Property Fund, and was part of Ukraine’s delegation during initial peace negotiations with Russia at the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022.
When diplomatic talks resumed in 2025, Umerov led Ukraine’s team through two new rounds of discussions with Moscow.
Earlier this year, Umerov came under investigation for alleged abuse of authority, drawing criticism from reformist lawmakers and anti-corruption groups. They accused him of undermining the Defense Procurement Agency (DPA), an entity created in 2022 to ensure accountability and transparency in military acquisitions.