Zelensky sacks envoy to US as Ukraine seeks more military aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Olga Stefanishyna from her post as ambassador to the United States, a move that follows a broader government reshuffle last month. The dismissal was announced via decree on Monday, occurring at a critical juncture as Kyiv urgently seeks additional Patriot air defense missiles from Washington to counter Russian aerial attacks.

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We increased the supply of American weapons and maintained support precisely when the political climate in Washington was shifting against us.

Stefanishyna, who had served as ambassador since July of the previous year, announced her departure on Facebook, posting a letter indicating her request to be relieved of duties was "dictated by personal circumstances." She described her tenure in Washington as "the greatest honor" of her life. Stefanishyna asserted that during her posting, the supply of American weapons and overall support were significantly increased, particularly during a period when the political climate in Washington was becoming less favorable to Ukraine.

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The decision was my own and “dictated by personal circumstances”.

Her role as ambassador is pivotal for Ukraine, given its heavy reliance on U.S. arms deliveries and intelligence sharing in the ongoing conflict with Russia. While relations between Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump have historically been strained, recent interactions suggest a more encouraging stance from the former president towards the Ukrainian leader. Ukrainian media reports suggest Stefanishyna is currently under investigation by the country's anti-corruption agency for alleged wrongdoing, though no formal charges have been filed. Zelensky has yet to name a successor for the crucial diplomatic post in Washington.

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She called her posting to Washington “the greatest honour” of her life.