Ukraine appoints Yulia Svyrydenko as new PM in major govt overhaul amid war with Russia
PTC Web Desk: In a significant reshuffling of key government roles, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed a new prime minister and several other high-ranking officials in the most substantial cabinet change since Russia’s invasion three years ago. Yulia Svyrydenko, 39, has been appointed as the new PM, replacing Denys Shmyhal, who held the position since 2020.
Svyrydenko’s confirmation by Ukraine’s parliament came on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing conflict with Russia. Prior to this appointment, Svyrydenko served as the first deputy PM and minister of economic development and trade. She is known for her role in building bridges between Kyiv and Washington. One of her notable achievements was negotiating a critical minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States earlier this year, which played a role in improving the historically cold relationship between the two nations.
In her first public statement as prime minister, Svyrydenko emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s military, economy, and social systems, while highlighting the urgency of progress in the midst of ongoing war. She stated on social media: “My key goal is real, positive results that every Ukrainian will feel in daily life. War leaves no room for delay. We must act swiftly and decisively.”
Outgoing Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, 49, will take on the role of defense minister, a post that has been fraught with corruption scandals in recent years. His transition comes as Ukraine continues to grapple with the challenges posed by Russia’s invasion.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, 50, will remain in his position, signaling continuity in Ukraine's foreign relations. The new reshuffle also sees Justice Minister Olga Stefanishyna, 39, appointed as Ukraine’s next ambassador to the United States, pending US approval. Stefanishyna, who earlier played a key role in the Ukraine-EU and NATO negotiations, was also instrumental in the mineral deal with the Trump administration. She will replace Oksana Markarova, the outgoing ambassador, who was criticised by Trump for her ties to the Biden administration.
Despite initial reports that defense minister Rustem Umerov was set to be appointed as the next US envoy, it was reported that Washington did not approve of this selection, according to opposition MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak.
Other cabinet reshuffles include new appointments for Oleksiy Sobolev and Taras Kachka, who will assume the roles of minister of economy, environment, and agriculture, and deputy prime minister for European integration, respectively.
- With inputs from agencies
