The two sides were now in talks over possible successors, who would need approval from both countries, citing two people familiar with the matter.

Markarova, who has served as ambassador in Washington since 2021, has been criticised by some Republicans for being too closely aligned with the Democratic Party.

Her replacement could be an attempt by Zelensky to appease Trump during a sensitive time for Ukraine.

Zelensky reportedly plans to announce Markarova’s replacement next week as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle.
The Ukrainian president has reorganised his cabinet several times since the start of the war.