Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed on Saturday that he had held a rare, publicly acknowledged meeting with CIA Director William Burns in Ukraine.
This announcement marks the end of Burns' tenure as CIA chief, as he is set to be replaced by an appointee of incoming U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
In a Telegram post, Zelensky shared that he and Burns had met numerous times throughout Russia's invasion, with their discussions typically kept confidential.
“Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director,” Zelensky wrote, adding, “He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help.”
The CIA chief’s interactions with Zelensky have been pivotal, reflecting the United States’ crucial role as Ukraine’s primary financial, military, and intelligence backer since Moscow’s invasion nearly three years ago. Washington is reported to have provided consistent military intelligence to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Zelensky noted that these meetings often occurred across various locations, including Ukraine, other European countries, and the United States, but without public disclosure.
The last confirmed interaction between the two leaders was in mid-2023, when Burns made a secret visit to Ukraine.
The announcement comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, with President-elect Trump set to assume office in a month.
Trump has vowed to end the war within hours of taking office, raising concerns that Kyiv might face pressure to accept a peace agreement skewed in favor of Moscow.
Zelensky shared a photograph of him shaking hands with Burns in front of Ukraine's state crest but did not specify the date of their final meeting.
The Ukrainian leader’s public acknowledgment underscores the significance of Burns’ support during the war and hints at the geopolitical shifts that could arise under the new U.S. administration.
As the war approaches its third year, Zelensky’s revelation underscores the delicate balance Ukraine must navigate amidst changing global dynamics and leadership transitions in its key ally, the United States.