Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky officially announced significant changes in the country’s diplomatic corps, particularly regarding the ambassadorial position in the Republic of Turkey
The relevant decree No. 305/2025, published on the official website of the President's Office on May 14, stipulates the appointment of Nariman Jelyalov to this responsible diplomatic role. This decision is part of a broad кадрова ротація (personnel rotation) among Ukrainian diplomats underway at the end of spring. According to the document, the new Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Ukraine to Turkey will be Nariman Enverovych Jelyalov, deputy head of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis. This move is particularly symbolic, as Jelyalov was one of the most well-known Crimean Tatar activists, released from Russian captivity at the end of June 2024. His return from detention and rehabilitation marked a significant step in the struggle for the rights of the Crimean Tatar people, and his appointment to the Ukrainian embassy in Ankara reflects the state's support for the Crimean Tatar community as well as active diplomatic efforts. The previous Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, has been serving since summer last year as ambassador to Warsaw, which led to a temporary absence of a full-fledged Ukrainian diplomatic representative in Ankara. This created a certain vacancy, which Jelyalov now intends to fill. President Zelensky’s choice has sparked considerable discussion both within diplomatic circles and among the public, coinciding with another phase of reforms in the appointments system for key diplomatic positions. Announcing this appointment in December last year, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of the candidate's personal qualities for advancing Ukraine's strategic interests in the region. It is expected that the new ambassador will strengthen Ukraine’s position in Turkey, considering his experience, close ties with the Crimean Tatar community, and understanding of the complex international environment. More details about Nariman Jelyalov’s career and diplomatic skills can be found in several analytical materials dedicated to this personnel change. However, it is already clear: the appointment of a Crimean Tatar activist is not only a diplomatic matter but also an important gesture of support for the Crimean Tatar people and Ukraine as a whole. As part of a broader demonstration of Zelensky’s policy aimed at strengthening the country's diplomatic façade, this step serves as a reminder of the importance of historical memory, national identity, and mutual understanding in international relations. The appointment of Jelyalov fully reflects Ukraine’s aspiration to assert its values and support the Crimean Tatar community’s fight for their rights and freedoms. It is expected that in the coming months, the new Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey will make a significant contribution to strengthening diplomatic ties between the two countries, as well as stimulating cooperation in politics, economics, and security. This will be an important step in Kyiv’s strategic goals to enhance its presence and influence on the international stage and to support compatriots residing in the region. Overall, the appointment of Nariman Jelyalov as Ukraine’s ambassador to Turkey is a symbolic and strategic gesture aimed at strengthening interstate relations, amplifying the voice of the Crimean Tatar people in diplomacy, and demonstrating our country’s commitment to democratic values and respect for national minorities.