Significant personnel changes are brewing within the Ukrainian political elite regarding the country's diplomatic representation in Washington. According to sources from RBC-Ukraine, one of the main contenders for the position of Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States is Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the President's Office.
Who is Pavlo Palisa?
Pavlo Palisa is a figure combining the experience of a combat commander and a state administrator. Since November 2024, he has held the position of Deputy Head of the President's Office, overseeing national security and defense issues. In this role, he is responsible for interaction with the military command and the implementation of projects to develop the defense industry.
However, his career did not begin in offices. Palisa is an active-duty serviceman who participated in combat operations from the first days of the full-scale war. Before moving to the civilian administration, he commanded the 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade "Holodny Yar". For his courage and military valor, he was awarded the highest state honor — the title of Hero of Ukraine with the award of the Order of the Golden Star.
Why him?
Interest in Palisa's candidacy in the context of the diplomatic mission is fueled not only by his administrative resources but also by his personal relationship with key figures in the US. President Donald Trump previously referred to Palisa as his "favorite soldier" in Ukraine. This circumstance could play a decisive role in negotiations and strengthening ties between the two countries.
"Palisa was being considered for such a position," confirmed an informed source in the government.
Context of personnel changes
The search for a new ambassador is taking place against the backdrop of active personnel rotation in the diplomatic corps. On August 3, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree dismissing Olga Stefanishyna from the post of Ambassador of Ukraine to the US. This opened a vacancy around which an active discussion has unfolded.
Previously, various names were mentioned as possible successors:
- Former Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko. The President offered her to lead the diplomatic mission, however, according to sources, she has not yet agreed.
- Rustem Umerov. Rumors about his possible appointment in Washington were refuted by the fact that on August 3 he was appointed Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine.
Thus, Pavlo Palisa remains one of the most likely candidates capable of filling the vacancy and continuing the development of the strategic partnership between Kyiv and Washington.
