Richard Verma now US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery

Deputy Secretary for Resources and Management Rich Verma is going to be carrying on work that Special Envoy Penny Pritzker started when it comes to reconstruction, economic issues related to Ukraine

Indian-American Richard Verma, who serves as the Deputy Secretary of State for Management & Resources, has been entrusted with an additional task of helping in rebuilding the war-ravaged Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Tony Blinken has named him as the US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery, in addition to his current position, which is the number two position in the State Department.

Verma, the former US Ambassador to India, is the highest ranking Indian-American ever in the State Department.

"Deputy Secretary for Resources and Management Rich Verma is going to be carrying on the work that Special Envoy Penny Pritzker has started when it comes to reconstruction and economic issues as it relates to our Ukrainian partners," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters at his daily news conference here on Wednesday.

 

Pritzker, who served as the Commerce Secretary during the Obama Administration, left the position of US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery on August 6.

"Verma is going to continue to build on the foundation that Special Envoy Pritzker laid when it comes to private sector engagement, when it comes to working with our allies and partners to marshal the economic support that we know is so critical to the future of our Ukrainian partners," Patel said in response to a question.

"Verma is an experienced diplomat with extensive experience not just in government but also in the private sector, and so I think he has a unique position and a unique perch and unique perspective to bring in continuing to build on Special Envoy Pritzker's work," he said.

Ronak D Desai, partner and leading India practitioner at Paul Hastings LLP, termed Verma's appointment as the US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery a "masterstroke, reflecting the Biden administration's commitment to restoring stability in one of the world's most critical geopolitical regions".

"Verma's unparalleled diplomatic acumen and economic experience make him uniquely suited to lead this charge," Desai said.

This dual role for Verma is not just an expansion of responsibilities; it's a testament to his extraordinary career, he said.

"Verma's additional role is historic, not just because of the portfolio itself, but because it further solidifies his legacy as one of the most dedicated public servants of his generation. His leadership will be pivotal in rebuilding Ukraine and advancing key American interests," Desai said, adding that this additional role further cements Verma's status as a key figure in shaping the future of US foreign policy.

Ukraine's path to recovery is fraught with challenges, but with Verma at the helm, the US is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in this pivotal moment, he said.

"Verma's appointment as the Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery is a strategic move that underscores his standing as a seasoned and trusted leader. His ability to combine economic strategy with diplomatic finesse will be instrumental in this crucial phase of Ukraine's recovery," Desai said.