KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a broad government reshuffle, including replacing Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, as Kyiv seeks to adjust its political leadership while continuing to confront Russia's full-scale invasion and sustain international backing.
Zelenskyy announced the planned changes on Sunday, saying Ukraine was "changing its political strategy" and that senior personnel changes would help implement updated priorities in foreign policy and government administration. The proposals require parliamentary approval before taking effect.
Svyrydenko subsequently announced her resignation, describing it as part of the planned transition. In a public statement, she said she was proud to have led the government during one of the country's most difficult periods and remained ready to continue serving Ukraine in another capacity.
Zelenskyy said experienced officials would be assigned responsibility for key foreign policy areas to improve implementation of agreements reached with international partners. He also indicated that changes would extend beyond the cabinet to senior law enforcement positions, although he did not provide further details or identify all proposed appointments.
The president did not publicly name a successor to Svyrydenko. Ukrainian and international media have reported that several senior officials are under consideration, while Svyrydenko is expected to assume a new role focused on relations with a key foreign partner. Reuters reported that she is expected to become Ukraine's next ambassador to the United States, though no official appointment has been announced.
The reshuffle comes as Ukraine continues to face sustained Russian missile and drone attacks while seeking additional military assistance from Western allies. Zelenskyy was in Paris on Monday for meetings with European leaders, where he called for stronger air and missile defence cooperation and presented proposals aimed at expanding Ukraine's anti-ballistic capabilities.
Ukraine has periodically reorganized its government since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, with officials describing the changes as efforts to improve wartime governance and coordination with international partners. Under Ukraine's constitution, nationwide elections have not been held during martial law, allowing Zelenskyy to remain in office while the conflict continues.
Parliament is expected to consider the proposed appointments and other personnel changes in the coming days, after which the new cabinet would formally assume office if lawmakers approve the reshuffle.
