Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed replacing the country's ambassador to the United States, Oksana Markarova, during a phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump on July 4, 2025. The ambassador, who has served since 2021, has faced criticism from Trump allies for perceived alignment with the Biden administration. Zelenskyy reportedly vowed to Trump that he would replace Markarova soon and work with Trump's team to agree on a suitable successor. Potential candidates for the ambassadorship include Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Energy Minister German Galushchenko. The decision to replace the ambassador appears to be part of a broader wartime cabinet reshuffle planned by Zelenskyy. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed the replacement, noting that while Markarova is effective and charismatic, diplomatic rotations are standard practice. The move aims to improve communication with the Trump administration and address concerns raised by Trump allies about the current envoy's political affiliations.
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