Zelensky Proposes Government Overhaul Amidst Ongoing War and Economic Challenges

On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requested First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to lead a new government. This move signals a potential political reshuffle amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Zelensky also nominated current Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to become the Minister of Defence, citing his qualifications for the role. These nominations require parliamentary approval. The proposed changes come as diplomatic efforts to end the war have stalled and as Ukraine focuses on revitalizing its economy and bolstering its domestic arms industry.

Zelensky stated that discussions focused on measures to strengthen Ukraine's economic capabilities, expand support programs for Ukrainians, and increase domestic weapons production. He announced the initiation of a transformation within the executive branch, proposing Svyrydenko to lead the government and "significantly renew its work."

Svyrydenko, an economist, has served as first deputy prime minister since 2021. She was involved in recent negotiations for a minerals deal with the United States. In his nightly address, Zelensky highlighted Shmyhal's "vast experience" as valuable for the defense minister position, emphasizing the concentration of resources, tasks, and responsibility in that area.

Shmyhal has been prime minister since March 2020, making him the longest-serving head of government since Ukraine's independence. He would replace Rustem Umerov, who Zelensky suggested could become Ukraine’s ambassador to Washington.

Ukraine relies on financial aid from its Western allies to fund social and humanitarian spending, as the majority of state revenue is allocated to the military and domestic weapons production. Ukrainian officials have also urged partners to help finance the country's arms industry, including through joint defense projects.

Zelensky affirmed Ukraine's commitment to increasing its own weapons production and developing its defense projects, both independently and in collaboration with partners. Svyrydenko stated her intention to pursue deregulation, reduce bureaucracy, protect businesses, and decrease non-essential spending to concentrate state resources on defense and post-war recovery. She emphasized that the state apparatus must not waste the country's resources and potential, and that Ukraine should strive to be among Europe's strongest economies.