Chris Smith named likely new U.S. ambassador to Ukraine

Andriy Veselovskyi, a diplomat, extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of Ukraine, and advisor to the director of the National Institute for Strategic Studies, mentioned that the name of the new U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine has been revealed. The likely candidate is Christopher Smith.

He shared this in an interview on Espreso.

“Ambassador Bridget Brink did everything good and useful for Ukrainian-American relations and for helping Ukraine during this difficult period. She is an extremely disciplined person who works within the guidelines provided by the U.S. State Department. The name of the replacement ambassador, Christopher Smith, has already been leaked. I think it’s safe for me to mention it,” said the diplomat. “He currently holds the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and has previously worked in Ukraine, focusing on corruption and the rule of law,” he added.

According to him, Christopher Smith is a professional military officer. He also knows the region well, having worked in Central and Eastern Europe, and is, of course, familiar with Ukraine’s issues.

“If it happens that Christopher Smith is appointed U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, it would be a very good option. He is a disciplined, knowledgeable, and competent person who knows Ukraine — a big plus. I hope it happens,” Veselovskyi concluded.

• On April 10, media reported that the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, is resigning ahead of schedule.