Rustem Umerov, recently appointed as the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service (FIS) of Ukraine, has outlined the key directions of work in his new position. In his statement, he emphasized that the agency must become an even more powerful tool for protecting the country's national interests.
International Cooperation as the Foundation of Security
One of Umerov's main priorities is the development of ties with foreign partners. Over the past few years, Ukraine has established extensive cooperation in the fields of security and defense with the USA, the UK, Norway, European Union countries, as well as states in the Middle East, the Persian Gulf, Turkey, and the South Caucasus.
"This is a solid foundation for further development of security, intelligence, and defense cooperation. In the new position, I will continue to work on this," stated the new head of the FIS.
Implementation of the President's Strategic Initiatives
Umerov also highlighted the implementation of strategic projects initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These include:
- Drone Deal — an international initiative to develop cooperation in the production and supply of unmanned systems to strengthen the defense capabilities of Ukraine and its partners;
- Freya Program — a project to develop missile defense and air defense, including the creation of new technological solutions for protection against missile threats.
According to Umerov, these projects are designed to strengthen not only Ukraine's defense capabilities but also the security of international partners.
Strengthening the Agency's Potential
The new head of the FIS has set himself the task of creating conditions for the agency's maximum efficiency. "My task is to strengthen its capabilities, ensure the necessary resources, and create all conditions for maximum efficiency," he emphasized.
Umerov also thanked the Foreign Intelligence Service team for their service to the state and expressed confidence that together with the team, they will be able to do more for Ukraine's security.
Context of the Appointment
Umerov's appointment as head of the FIS came after his dismissal from the position of Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). Prior to this, Oleg Lugovsky was the acting chairman of the FIS.
Parallel to this, personnel changes are taking place in Ukraine's foreign policy bloc: Deputy Head of the President's Office, Pavlo Palisa, has become a possible candidate for the position of Ambassador of Ukraine to the USA. President Zelenskyy has already signed a decree dismissing Olga Stefanishina from this position.
