KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy moved to replace Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as part of a government reshuffle aimed at implementing what he described as an updated political strategy, triggering the resignation of the cabinet and opening the process for appointing a new government.
Zelenskyy announced on July 12 that he had discussed changes with Svyrydenko and expected parliament to approve the necessary government changes. He did not immediately name her successor or provide a detailed timetable for the appointment process.
“I am grateful to Yuliia for her clear, steady, and effective work as Prime Minister, for her years of productive service on Ukraine’s team,” Zelenskyy said in a statement cited by Reuters. He added that he had offered Svyrydenko a new role involving relations with a key international partner.
Svyrydenko, who became prime minister in July 2025, resigned as required after the president initiated the government changes. She said she remained committed to serving Ukraine, according to reports on the reshuffle.
Zelenskyy said the reshuffle would also include changes among the heads of law enforcement agencies, but he did not provide further details. He said the changes were intended to ensure the implementation of the government’s revised political direction.
The planned replacement comes as Ukraine continues managing the economic and diplomatic demands of its war with Russia. Zelenskyy has linked the new strategy to several priorities, including strengthening international partnerships and advancing security cooperation, according to his public statements.
Svyrydenko’s departure marks another major government reorganization under Zelenskyy during Russia’s full-scale invasion. She had previously served in economic development roles before becoming prime minister and was involved in negotiations connected to Ukraine’s economic cooperation with international partners.
Several names have been discussed in Ukrainian media as possible candidates for the premiership, including senior officials from the energy and defense sectors, but no appointment had been officially confirmed.
The next step is expected to involve Ukraine’s parliament considering a new prime ministerial nomination and voting on changes to the cabinet.
