Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly agreed to replace the country’s ambassador to the United States, Oksana Markarova, in what is seen as a strategic move to improve relations with former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to a report by the Financial Times on today.

The decision followed a recent phone call between Zelensky and Trump, amid rising political pressure and the ongoing war with Russia. Sources familiar with the discussions told the UK-based newspaper that talks were underway between Kyiv and Washington on a possible replacement, with final approval required from both sides.

Markarova, who has served in Washington since 2021, has come under criticism from several Republican lawmakers for her perceived closeness to the Democratic Party. Replacing her is seen as a gesture to ease tensions with Trump and his allies ahead of a potential shift in U.S. leadership, should Trump return to office after the 2024 elections.

The move comes at a time when the United States has delayed certain arms deliveries previously approved for Ukraine, even as Russia continues relentless missile and drone attacks more than three years into its full-scale invasion.

Zelensky is expected to announce Markarova’s successor next week as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle. The Financial Times reports that the Ukrainian president is keen on selecting a figure who can effectively communicate and negotiate with both the White House and U.S. Congress, especially as Ukraine seeks continued military and economic support.

Among those reportedly being considered for the role are Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.

Commenting on the development, Balázs Jarábik, a former EU diplomat in Kyiv, suggested the personnel changes reflect a strategy aimed more at managing domestic and international pressure through “renewal and control” than at signaling any major policy shift.

Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelensky has reshuffled key members of his cabinet multiple times, often citing the need for fresh energy and greater efficiency in government operations during wartime.