Ukrainian Interior Minister Arsen Avakov has signed a request to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to grant Ukrainian citizenship to Ekaterina Zguladze, who is expected to be appointed his first deputy.

"I have signed a request to the Ukrainian president to grant Ukrainian citizenship to Ekaterina Zguladze," Avakov said on Facebook on Friday.

Avakov also said Poroshenko has welcomed his request and said a decree to this effect may be signed on Monday.

"On Monday, when the relevant presidential decree granting her citizenship is issued, I will complete the formalities by signing a recommendation to the Cabinet of Ministers to appoint Ekaterina Zguladze first deputy interior minister. I am very happy about it. There will be more competence, will to reform and smiles in the Interior Ministry. Welcome!" Avakov said.