Ukrainian lawmakers approved nine new ministers on Thursday, marking President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's largest cabinet reshuffle since Russia's invasion in 2022. Andrii Sybiha, 49, an experienced but low-profile diplomat, was appointed as the new foreign minister, replacing Dmytro Kuleba, a prominent figure in Ukraine's diplomacy. Though foreign policy is expected to remain largely unchanged under Zelenskiy's leadership, the timing of the reshuffle is critical, as Ukraine continues to seek increased support from allies and aims to engage the Global South.
Zelenskiy, who is scheduled to visit the U.S. later this month, plans to present a "victory plan" to President Joe Biden. In a nightly address, he emphasized the need for renewed energy in the government, especially with Western allies, investors, and efforts to support Ukraine’s military on the front lines. He called for greater governmental activity at all levels, signaling the importance of this autumn in Ukraine's strategic efforts.
This reshuffle began on Tuesday, when several ministers resigned. With several cabinet posts already vacant due to earlier dismissals, Zelenskiy proposed replacements, which were confirmed by lawmakers on Thursday. Opposition lawmaker Dmytro Razumkov noted that significant changes were unlikely, as most decisions are made in Zelenskiy’s office under martial law.
One of the key appointments was Olha Stefanyshina, 38, who took on a broader role combining her previous duties overseeing Ukraine’s efforts to join the EU and NATO, along with responsibilities previously held by the justice minister. She emphasized the need for extensive legal reforms to meet EU membership requirements.
Additionally, Herman Smetanin, 32, a former engineer, was named strategic industries minister, responsible for domestic arms production. Oleksiy Kuleba, formerly a deputy head of Zelenskiy’s office, became deputy prime minister for reconstruction, regions, and infrastructure—a critical role involving oversight of substantial financial resources.
Other appointments included ministers for agriculture, culture, environment, veterans affairs, and sport. While Ukraine cannot hold elections due to martial law, this reshuffle offers a sense of renewal, according to Anton Hrushetskyi of the Kyiv-based KIIS polling group, noting that changing officials allows for some political release.
Meanwhile, Russian forces continue advancing in eastern Ukraine, escalating missile and drone attacks on cities like Kyiv. Zelenskiy has highlighted several important meetings with foreign partners in September, aiming to regain momentum in the war. He is expected to participate in a meeting of the Ramstein group of nations, which provides military support to Ukraine. Additionally, Zelenskiy has urged allies to lift restrictions preventing Kyiv from conducting long-range strikes into Russia using Western weapons.