Ukraine’s Zelensky names Olha Stefanishyna as new US ambassador
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Ms Olha Stefanishyna previously played a major role in Ukraine’s integration into Western institutions.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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- Olha Stefanishyna, former deputy prime minister, is Ukraine's new ambassador to the US, replacing Oksana Markarova after six years.
- President Zelensky outlined key tasks for Stefanishyna, focusing on "reinvigorating the work of our embassy" in Washington.
- Critical agreements under focus include weapon provisions and drone supplies, crucial for Ukraine's long-term security, especially defence.
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KYIV - President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on Aug 27 appointing Olha Stefanishyna, a former top Cabinet minister, as Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States.
Mr Zelensky, speaking in his nightly video address, said he had signed a decree on the appointment of Ms Stefanishyna, 39, after formalities had been completed.
"I outlined the key tasks for reinvigorating the work of our embassy," he said.
She takes over as ambassador from Ms Oksana Markarova, who held the position for six years, including more than three years of full-scale war with Russia.
Mr Zelensky singled out two agreements as critical - on providing weapons for Ukraine and on supplying drones to the United States.
“The main thing is to fully implement all the agreements reached in Washington – our agreements with President (Donald) Trump, above all in the defence sphere... Much of Ukraine’s long-term security depends on relations with America.”
Ms Stefanishyna had served in Mr Zelensky’s administration as a deputy prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration, playing a major role in the country’s integration into Western institutions, and as minister of justice. REUTERS
