Rustem Umerov: We are strengthening the Ministry of Defence leadership team

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved the candidates for First Deputy Minister of Defence and Deputy Ministers of Defence, as nominated by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.

“In response to the challenges posed by the full-scale war, we continue implementing strategic steps to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.  One such step is reinforcing the leadership team at the Ministry of Defence.  Today, I have made several key appointments aimed at ensuring greater efficiency and agility in the work of the defense agency, as well as creating conditions for deeper integration with international partners,” stated Ukraine’s Defense Minister.

In particular, Sergiy Boyev, who previously served as Deputy Minister of Defence for International Cooperation and Partnerships, has been appointed First Deputy Minister of Defence. Given the current geopolitical situation, his background in international relations—especially in facilitating security assistance and guarantees for Ukraine—is of critical importance.

He will oversee all areas of responsibility of the deputy ministers to maintain a cohesive direction—from meeting the immediate needs of the frontline to the long-term development of Ukraine’s military architecture.

The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive operational strategy:

- addressing the urgent needs of the military in real time;

- collaborating with colleagues, in particular, with Deputy Minister of Defence, Lieutenant General Moisiuk, to build the Future Force model—a comprehensive defense framework created through joint efforts by the Ministry of Defence and the General Staff.

“Sergiy Boyev’s focus will be on enhancing international partnerships, securing funding and investment for Ukraine’s defense industry capabilities, and establishing strategic joint ventures with international partners. This will not only bolster our defense capabilities but also foster the active development of our own capacities,” Rustem Umerov remarked.

Additionally, Lieutenant General Mykola Shevtsov has been appointed as Deputy Minister of Defence for Logistics and Procurement.

He is recognized as one of the most proficient experts in this domain. Lieutenant General Mykola Shevtsov served as the head of the Main Logistics Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and it was largely due to his efforts that Ukraine was able to establish effective mechanisms for supplying and supporting troops on the front lines. In his new role, his primary responsibility will be to further reform procurement, coupled with continuous collaboration with the market and manufacturers.

Mykola Shevtsov, in collaboration with the Defense Procurement Agency and the State Operator for Non-Lethal Acquisition (DOT), will work to reduce the time required to provide supplies for the military, simplifying bureaucratic processes and digitizing operations. Another task is maintaining continuous feedback from our forces on the front lines, enabling prompt adjustments to their needs and accelerating supply processes.

Another appointment: Oleksandr Kozenko has been appointed Deputy Minister of Defence.

Since November 2023, he has served as an advisor to the Minister of Defence of Ukraine, responsible for developing state aviation.  He holds a degree in international economics and is a graduate of Kyiv National Economic University.

Oleksandr Kozenko has a solid background in civil aviation. He has held key leadership roles in Ukrainian and international companies and founded and owned several businesses.

From 2020 to 2023, he served as an advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

In his new role, Oleksandr Kozenko will be responsible for developing aviation capabilities.

At the same time, Serhii Melnyk has concluded his tenure as Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine.

“I would like to thank Serhii for his professional, dedicated, and effective work in one of the most challenging areas — ensuring decent conditions for our service members,” emphasized the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.

Among Serhii Melnyk’s significant accomplishments are the introduction of the ‘Wounded Warrior Package’ and adaptive clothing, the restoration of the hospital network, the launch of the Service Member and Family Support Service, the creation of a recruitment network, and Ukraine's attainment of associate membership in the largest global organization for NATO reserve officers.

Serhii Melnyk will transition to a new role where his experience will be extremely valuable for further strengthening our country.