Major Ukrainian Government Reshuffle: Yulia Svyrydenko Nominated as New Prime Minister

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has nominated Yulia Svyrydenko, currently the Minister of Economy, as the new Prime Minister. This is considered the most significant reshuffle in the Ukrainian government since Russia's full-scale invasion. Zelenskyy made the announcement on Monday (July 14).

Svyrydenko, 39, also currently serves as Deputy Prime Minister. She took charge of Ukraine's economy just months before Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Her role in the negotiations for a crucial rare minerals deal with the United States was widely discussed. If her nomination is approved by parliament, she will replace Denys Shmyhal, who has served as Prime Minister since 2020. Shmyhal has been the longest-serving Prime Minister since Ukraine's independence.

Zelenskyy announced on his social media that he has "proposed Yulia Svyrydenko to lead the Ukrainian government and bring new momentum to its activities. We expect to see the new government's action plan presented soon." He referred to this as a "transformation" of the government's executive branch. The President further stated that he discussed with Yulia about increasing Ukraine's economic capabilities, expanding support programs for Ukrainians, and boosting domestic arms production.

As part of this reshuffle, Zelenskyy also announced the nomination of Denys Shmyhal as the Minister of Defense. He stated that Shmyhal's "vast experience" would be "extremely valuable" in this position, as the country's highest resources, work, and responsibilities are currently concentrated in this sector.

If these nominations are approved by parliament, Shmyhal will replace the current Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Zelenskyy hinted that Umerov is being considered for the position of Ukraine's Ambassador to Washington. Following a meeting with Umerov over the weekend, Zelenskyy stated, "Ukraine's relations with the United States need more positive momentum, and at the same time, new steps are required in managing our country's defense sector."

This cabinet reshuffle is seen as a crucial step amidst the conflict in war-torn Ukraine, which has lasted for over three years. According to experts, it will bring new energy to government operations and help alleviate public fatigue. Given Zelenskyy's strong support in parliament, Svyrydenko's nomination is highly likely to be approved.

Source: Al Jazeera