Government reshuffle aims to advance reforms and strengthen national priorities
KYIV: Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced her resignation on Sunday after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy unveiled plans for a broad government reshuffle aimed at renewing the cabinet and accelerating key national priorities.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Svyrydenko thanked her colleagues and reflected on her tenure. “I am proud to have had the honour of leading the government. Thank you to the entire government team for its work,” she wrote.
Earlier, Zelenskyy confirmed on Telegram that he had met with the outgoing prime minister to discuss the planned changes. He praised Svyrydenko for her leadership and years of public service, adding that he had proposed she take charge of another important area of national work.
The president said Ukraine now requires a renewed cabinet capable of addressing evolving domestic and international challenges. However, he did not identify Svyrydenko’s successor or provide further details about the restructuring plan.
Parliament expected to approve new government
Svyrydenko has served as prime minister since July 17, 2025, after succeeding Denys Shmyhal. Following her resignation, Shmyhal, who currently serves as first deputy prime minister and energy minister, is expected to assume the role of acting prime minister until parliament approves a new cabinet.
Under Ukrainian law, any cabinet reshuffle requires parliamentary approval. Nevertheless, lawmakers have largely supported Zelenskyy’s legislative agenda since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, making swift approval of the proposed changes likely.
Focus remains on reforms and European integration
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy outlined several priorities for the incoming administration. He said the government must accelerate Ukraine’s progress toward European Union membership, strengthen border security and improve state institutions to meet wartime and postwar challenges.
Additionally, the president said he intends to assign new responsibilities across different areas of foreign policy to improve diplomatic coordination and international engagement.
The reshuffle comes as Ukraine continues managing the pressures of the ongoing conflict with Russia while pursuing political reforms, economic recovery and closer integration with European institutions. Government officials expect the transition process to move quickly once parliament considers the proposed appointments, ensuring continuity in governance while implementing the president’s broader reform agenda.
