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Following weeks of speculation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a significant government reshuffle this week, replacing both his prime minister and defence minister.
The move aims to inject new energy into his administration as the war with Russia continues with no end in sight and ceasefire talks remain stalled.
This shake-up also comes as the White House reaffirms its commitment to supporting Kyiv.
New PM with Strong US Ties
Ukraine’s new prime minister will be Yulia Svyrydenko, currently the economy minister. She is notably recognised for her role in finalising a natural resources deal with the United States, a negotiation that almost jeopardised bilateral relations.
Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former economy minister who worked with Svyrydenko, stated, “She was the key and the only person leading these negotiations. She managed to prevent them from unravelling.”
Analysts suggest her success in these talks earned her the respect of US partners, including senior political leadership.
Political analyst Volodymyr Fesenko remarked, “Trump and his administration are now a priority for Ukraine. Svyrydenko has proven herself there and will continue to do so.”
Andy Hunder, president of the American Chamber of Commerce, added that Svyrydenko, 39, has gained the trust of Ukraine’s business community through her management of the wartime economy, describing their relationship as “transparent, trust-based, and collaborative.”
Defence Minister Becomes New US Ambassador
President Zelenskyy has indicated that outgoing Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who participated in negotiations with Russia, will be appointed as the next US ambassador.
Zelenskyy conveyed this decision to Umerov during a meeting last week, stating, “Ukraine needs more positive dynamics in relations with the United States and, at the same time, new steps in managing the defence sector of our state.”
This appointment is significant given President Donald Trump’s past criticisms of aid to Ukraine, despite his authorisation for NATO members to purchase arms on Kyiv’s behalf.
According to Fesenko, Umerov’s new role “means only one thing. The key issue in bilateral relations between the US and Ukraine right now is weapons.”
He added that “Arms supplies are the number one issue. The second issue is negotiations to end the war. Umerov has been involved in both.”
Outgoing Prime Minister Denys Shmygal, an unassuming technocrat, will take over the defence ministry brief.
Concerns Over Centralisation of Power and Future Outlook
Zelenskyy’s political rivals have long accused him of consolidating power, and some critical media outlets view Svyrydenko’s appointment as the latest step in this trend.
She is perceived as loyal to Andriy Yermak, the influential head of Zelenskyy’s office.
Ukrainska Pravda, a respected independent media outlet, characterised these changes as “the strengthening of the head of the presidential office—although it’s hard to see how that’s possible.”
Opposition lawmaker Mykola Kniazhytskyi told AFP, “It’s obvious that the presidential office’s influence will increase. The authorities are pursuing further centralisation and refusing any dialogue.”
Svyrydenko has outlined her priorities as prime minister to include strengthening the economy, boosting arms production, and expanding support programs.
Fesenko believes Shmygal’s appointment as defence minister will likely see him “bring some order” to the ministry, which has faced past corruption scandals.
Lawmakers and political commentators anticipate a parliamentary vote to dismiss the current government on Wednesday, with new nominations expected to be approved the following day.
Further cabinet changes, potentially including the energy ministry, are also suggested.
