Ukraine Reshuffle: Koretskyi Named PM, Zelenskyy Moves to Oust Defense Minister

Ukraine Reshuffle: Koretskyi Named PM, Zelenskyy Moves to Oust Defense Minister

Ukraine Reshuffle – In a significant government overhaul, Ukraine’s lawmakers voted Thursday to appoint President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s nominee, Sergii Koretskyi, as prime minister. Koretskyi, currently chair of the state energy company Naftogaz, replaces Yulia Svyrydenko, whose resignation this week opened the door for the transition. The move aligns with Zelenskyy’s goal of streamlining the administration and addressing pressing challenges.

Zelenskyy highlighted Koretskyi’s expertise in managing energy infrastructure, emphasizing his suitability for leading Ukraine’s efforts to navigate an anticipated harsh winter. The president cited the Naftogaz chief’s track record in securing resources and stabilizing the energy sector as critical to the nation’s survival amid ongoing conflict.

Defense Minister Reshuffle Sparks Protest

Meanwhile, in Kyiv, hundreds of protesters gathered to voice concerns over the removal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov confirmed his departure on X late Wednesday, ending a six-month stint in the role. His tenure saw significant reductions in bureaucratic processes, expanded drone operations, and a shift toward data-informed tactics to weaken Russian forces.

“Koretskyi was the most appropriate candidate for the government’s priority of preparing Ukraine for another difficult winter,” Zelenskyy stated, underscoring the strategic rationale behind the appointment.

Fedorov had previously spearheaded Ukraine’s digital transformation, earning public praise for modernizing government services and advancing battlefield technology. While Zelenskyy has not yet formally announced the dismissal, lawmakers indicated that Ihor Klymenko, the current interior minister, will take over the defense portfolio.

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