A significant government shake-up is unfolding in Ukraine as at least six ministers have resigned, and a key presidential aide has been dismissed.
One of the notable resignations on Tuesday was that of Oleksandr Kamyshin, the Minister for Strategic Industries, who oversaw weapons production. Kamyshin indicated that he expects to transition to another role within the defense sector.
Other high-profile departures include Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, along with the ministers of justice, environment, and reintegration.
Additionally, Vitaliy Koval, the head of Ukraine’s State Property Fund, also stepped down. As a result, about one-third of the cabinet positions are now vacant.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has been in office since 2019, hinted at a major government reshuffle last week. In his regular evening address, he emphasized the necessity for change.
“Autumn will be extremely important for Ukraine. Our state institutions must be restructured to ensure that Ukraine achieves the results we need—results that benefit all of us,” Zelenskyy stated. “To this end, we must strengthen certain areas of the government, and changes in its composition have been prepared. There will also be changes in the president’s office.”
A decree published on the president’s website revealed that Rostyslav Shurma, a deputy chief of staff responsible for economic affairs, had also been dismissed.
This overhaul comes at a crucial time as Ukraine faces ongoing challenges from Russian forces advancing on the eastern front. President Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit the United States, a key ally, later this month, where he is expected to present his “victory plan” to President Joe Biden.
David Arakhamia, a senior lawmaker from the ruling party, indicated that more than half of the ministers in the government are likely to be replaced.
