Zelenskyy's Cabinet Reshuffle: Svyrydenko Poised as PM

Kyiv, Jul 17 (AP) - President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to invigorate Ukraine's government with new appointments as part of a Cabinet reshuffle aimed at revitalizing the nation amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Though the leadership changes may seem significant abroad, domestically they reflect continuity, as Zelenskyy continues to rely on trusted officials who have proven their mettle during the war, now entering its fourth year. Zelenskyy has submitted proposals to parliament for these changes, including the replacement of Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine's longest-serving head of government. Among the draft resolutions is the proposed appointment of Yuliia Svyrydenko, currently the first deputy prime minister and minister of economy, as the new prime minister, with Shmyhal poised to transition to the role of defence minister. While several Cabinet changes loom, all eyes are on Svyrydenko's potential ascension to the prime ministership. Svyrydenko has been pivotal in negotiating a mineral agreement between the US and Ukraine, and she has consistently represented Ukraine in critical discussions with Western allies, focusing on defence initiatives, economic recovery, and post-war reconstruction. Her peers describe her as a determined and loyal figure to the presidential office. In a recent social media post, Zelenskyy shared a photo featuring Svyrydenko and Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, stating that the government's focus for the next six months will include enhancing domestic weapons production, securing all types of drones for the defence forces, easing regulations to unlock Ukraine's economic potential, and supporting social welfare programs. Shmyhal's resignation, announced on Tuesday, marks the end of his more than five-year tenure, having served since his appointment on March 4, 2020. Within Ukraine, Shmyhal has generally been seen as allied closely with Zelenskyy rather than as an autonomous political force. In assuming the defence minister role, Shmyhal will maintain a significant presence in the government, given the ministry's large budget and crucial role amidst the war. Shmyhal is set to replace Rustem Umerov, whose period as defence minister saw efforts towards reform overshadowed by internal challenges and ongoing issues with the ministry's procurement system. Despite Umerov’s active international involvement, his term was criticized for continued mismanagement within the department.

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