**G7 Ambassadors Urge Swift Resolution of Defense Procurement Agency Dispute**
The ambassadors of the Group of Seven (G7) countries have called for a swift resolution to the dispute over the leadership of Ukraine’s Defense Procurement Agency. In a statement on January 27, they urged that weapons procurement continue uninterrupted.
This comes after Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced on January 24 that he would not renew the contract of Maryna Bezrukova, the head of the Defense Procurement Agency. He cited unsatisfactory results as the reason for his decision.
Bezrukova had been at the helm of the agency since it was reformed a year ago. The agency’s supervisory board had voted to extend her contract just days before Umerov made his announcement. Bezrukova has refused to step down, saying that she was legally selected by the board.
The G7 ambassadors emphasized the importance of adhering to good governance principles and NATO recommendations. They said that consistency with these standards is crucial for maintaining trust among the public and international partners.
Umerov had earlier criticized the Defense Procurement Agency under Bezrukova’s leadership, saying that arms procurement had “turned into an Amazon”. He plans to replace her with Arsen Zhumadilov, the director of the State Rear Operator (DOT), which buys food and clothes for the military.
Bezrukova has warned that the ongoing conflict over her contract could block procurement for Ukrainian forces. She said that contracting and supplies may be blocked due to the legal conflict between her and Umerov.
The situation is seen as a serious reputational loss for Ukraine, which could negatively affect relations with foreign partners.