Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Olga Stefanishyna, following a government reshuffle carried out last month.
The dismissal, announced by presidential decree on Monday, comes as Kyiv intensifies efforts to secure additional Patriot air defence systems from Washington to counter escalating Russian missile attacks.
In a Facebook post, Stefanishyna said she requested to be relieved of her duties for personal reasons, describing her assignment in Washington as “the greatest honour” of her life.
She said her tenure helped strengthen US military support for Ukraine despite changing political dynamics in Washington, adding that weapons deliveries were maintained even as support faced increasing political pressure.
Stefanishyna, who previously served as Ukraine’s deputy prime minister and justice minister, was appointed ambassador to the US in July 2025. The position remains central to Ukraine’s war effort, with Kyiv relying heavily on American military assistance and intelligence cooperation.
Relations between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump have experienced periods of tension, although recent interactions have shown signs of improvement.
Ukrainian media have reported that Stefanishyna is being investigated by the country’s anti-corruption agency over alleged wrongdoing, though no formal charges have been filed.
Zelensky has yet to announce her successor as Ukraine’s ambassador to Washington.
