US gives important responsibility to Indian-origin Richard Verma, will do this work to help Ukraine

Indian-origin American Richard Verma, who is serving as Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, has been given the additional task of helping rebuild war-ravaged Ukraine. US Secretary of State Tony Blinken has appointed him as the US Special Representative for Ukraine's economic recovery in addition to his current position, the number two position in the State Department.

Verma, former US Ambassador to India, is the highest-ranking Indian-origin American to ever reach the State Department. "Deputy Secretary of Resources and Management Rich Verma will carry forward the work that Special Envoy Penny Pritzker has started for reconstruction and economic issues related to our Ukrainian partners," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said at his daily news conference here on Wednesday.

Pritzker, who served as Commerce Secretary during the Obama administration, stepped down as US Special Representative for Ukraine's economic reform on August 6, Patel said in response to a question.

"Verma will continue to build on the foundation that Special Envoy Pritzker laid about private sector engagement. We are moving forward on the important work of mobilizing economic support for the future of Ukrainian partners," he said.

"Verma is a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience not only in government but also in the private sector, and so I think he has a unique expertise perspective that can be leveraged to advance Special Envoy Pritzker's work," Patel said.

Ronak D Desai, a prominent Indian-origin businessman and partner at Paul Hastings LLP, called Verma's appointment as US Special Representative for Ukraine's economic reform "a masterstroke". It reflects the Biden administration's commitment to restore stability in one of the world's most important geopolitical regions.

"Verma's unparalleled diplomatic acumen and economic experience make her uniquely suited to lead this assignment," Desai said. For Verma, this dual role is not just an expansion of responsibilities; it is a testament to her extraordinary career.

"Verma's additional role is historic, not only because of this portfolio but also because it further cements her legacy as one of the most dedicated public servants of her generation. Her leadership will be critical in rebuilding Ukraine and advancing key American interests," Desai said.

He said Ukraine's path to reform is filled with challenges, but under Verma's leadership, the US is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to support Ukraine at this crucial moment.

According to Desai, Verma's appointment as Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Reform is a strategic move that solidifies her position as an experienced and trusted leader. Her ability to combine economic strategy with diplomatic acumen will play a key role in this critical phase of Ukraine's reform.