Ukraine Taps Svyrydenko As New PM
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has nominated Yulia Svyrydenko, the country’s current Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister, to take over as Prime Minister. The nomination comes as part of a significant government reshuffle aimed at boosting wartime governance and accelerating economic recovery.
If approved by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada (parliament) in the coming days, Svyrydenko will become Ukraine’s first female Prime Minister during an ongoing war with Russia.
Focus on Economic and Defence Strength
Svyrydenko, 39, is known for leading major economic reforms and negotiating key trade and defence-industrial agreements. She played a central role in shaping Ukraine’s economic strategy during the war and was instrumental in finalising a minerals supply deal with the United States.
Zelenskyy has expressed confidence that her appointment will streamline government operations, increase arms production, and support economic resilience under wartime pressure.
Shmyhal To Become Defence Minister
Outgoing Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who has served since 2020, is expected to shift to the role of Defence Minister. The move is seen as an effort to bring experienced civilian leadership into Ukraine’s defence ministry, which has been operating under intense pressure amid battlefield challenges.
Strategic Timing
The reshuffle comes as Ukraine faces heightened military threats and critical infrastructure damage. It also coincides with a fresh wave of Western military support, including advanced air defence systems like Patriot missiles. Zelenskyy’s government is looking to combine military preparedness with governance reform to maintain national stability.
What Lies Ahead
Svyrydenko’s approval is expected from parliament, given the ruling party’s majority. If confirmed, she will lead a government tasked with maintaining public morale, securing international aid, and managing a wartime economy.
