President Volodymyr Zelensky has taken a significant step in national security by appointing Rustem Umerov as the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.

This decree was signed on Friday, July 18. At the same time, the President dismissed Oleksandr Lytvynenko from this position. Today, Zelensky discussed with Umerov the work of the NSDC and the headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, as well as personal tasks in the defense sector.

“First, we need to continue working with partners on arms agreements. We must fully implement every agreement with our partners regarding arms supplies, as well as new special agreements for creating joint production facilities,” the President stated.

Umerov's second task is to analyze the execution of decisions made by the NSDC and the headquarters, implementing what has been delayed. According to Zelensky, clear coordination and complete execution of decisions in Ukraine's defense and security sector are essential.

“Third, we need to activate the negotiation track. Currently, we are implementing the agreements from the second meeting in Istanbul. More dynamics are required in this process,” emphasized the President.

It is also worth noting that the third round of negotiations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation will take place after the exchange of bodies and prisoners.

Umerov has held the position of Minister of Defense since September 6, 2023, while Lytvynenko served as Secretary of the NSDC since March 26, 2024. There were rumors about Umerov being appointed as Ukraine's ambassador to the USA, but this position was offered to Olha Stefanishyna.