Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree approving the updated composition of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). The document, which came into force on July 31, 2026, solidifies large-scale personnel changes in the country's key security and government structures.
New faces in the council
The updated composition of the Council includes heads who took office during the recent wave of appointments. The media paid particular attention to the inclusion of First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiga. His presence in the supreme security body underscores the importance of the diplomatic direction in the state's current strategy.
Who left the council
The list of those excluded from the NSDC includes a number of high-ranking officials who previously held key posts. The following have been removed from the council:
- Former Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko;
- Former Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko;
- Former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky;
- Former First Deputy Minister of Economy Oleksiy Sobolev;
- Former First Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
The decision to exclude these figures was made in accordance with Article 107 of the Constitution of Ukraine and reflects the current configuration of power following the change of leadership in the government and security agencies.
Context of changes
The update to the NSDC composition occurred against the backdrop of active international contacts by the Ukrainian leadership. The day before, Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that during negotiations with US President Donald Trump, the issue of expanding the use of Starlink satellite communications was discussed. The head of state emphasized that this step is aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Ukrainian military.
Thus, personnel changes in the NSDC not only reflect the internal restructuring of power but also correlate with foreign policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the country's defense capabilities.
