Who will replace Reznikov if Defense Minister needs replacing? — MP Kostenko

There have been discussions within the President’s Office regarding a replacement for Reznikov, Kostenko confirmed, and this information has been circulating among lawmakers and various sources for several weeks.

“There are also reports that Reznikov might be appointed as Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, and this information is also supported by various sources,” stated Kostenko, responding to the statements made by MP Oleksiy Honcharenko regarding Reznikov’s potential appointment as Ukrainian ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Those reports were later refuted.

Discussions regarding Reznikov’s potential successor as Defense Minister have led to various names being considered.

Kostenko listed Kyrylo Budanov, the Defense Ministry’s head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, whose candidacy had been previously considered. He noted that Budanov’s military status could present a legal obstacle as the defense minister is required to be a civilian.

“If Budanov does decide to pursue this position… or even if someone else does, the Office (of the President) will need to pass a law allowing him to assume this role. Otherwise, it would be a violation of the law and unacceptable. If they do proceed in that manner, it will contradict the principles we have adhered to and our aspirations to join NATO and the European Union. Hence, this choice is not very favorable,” noted Kostenko.

The MP also mentioned another contender, General Oleksandr Pavliuk, who is currently serving as Deputy Defense Minister. He also holds a military position.

“Rumors are circulating about the possible candidacy of Mr. Oleksandr Kubrakov, the incumbent Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration and Infrastructure Minister, as well as Mr. Oleksandr Kamyshyn, the Strategic Industries Minister,” said Kostenko.

“As far as I know, Kubrakov is currently the most likely candidate. However, I can assure you that things can change multiple times, and names under consideration are still subject to discussion.”

He said that it is still uncertain whether Reznikov will even be dismissed.

While discussions regarding Reznikov’s potential dismissal and his successor are ongoing and lively, nothing is set in stone, noted Kostenko. He pointed out that in his experience, even certainties can change after reconsideration.

Rumors about Reznikov’s dismissal last emerged amid a food procurement scandal in February 2023, where it was alleged that deliberately overpriced contracts were made with a catering company to supply food to Ukraine’s Armed Forces. Several top officials at the defense ministry were suspected of involvement.

Speculation then mounted that Reznikov might be moved to the Strategic Industries Ministry, with military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov taking over as defense minister.

Reznikov said he would resign if asked by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Reznikov has, however, remained at his post.

Reznikov thanked everyone for their constructive criticism on Feb. 7 and emphasized his intention to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses via reforms at the ministry.

MP Oleksiy Honcharenko stated on Aug. 1 that Reznikov might be dismissed as Minister of Defense and appointed as ambassador to the United Kingdom.

In response, Oleh Nikolenko, spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, called on the MPs to refrain from engaging in “personnel appointments.”