Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has officially submitted his resignation, paving the way for what is set to be the country’s most significant wartime government reshuffle since the Russian invasion began in 2022. The move, announced on Tuesday, follows President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s nomination of First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to succeed Shmyhal.
Svyrydenko, a long-time ally of Zelenskiy, is expected to take over as Prime Minister following a parliamentary vote scheduled for Thursday. The president has already outlined her immediate priorities, including increasing domestic arms production and enacting reforms aimed at revitalising Ukraine’s war-stricken economy.
“We are preparing the initial steps of the renewed government,” Zelenskiy said via his official Telegram channel, alongside a photo from a meeting with Svyrydenko in his office.
Shmyhal, who has served as prime minister since March 2020, is widely expected to transition to the role of defence minister—a position crucial to Ukraine’s response to Russia’s continuing offensive in the eastern regions. His prospective appointment underlines the high-level strategy shift underway in Kyiv as military and economic pressures mount.
The government shakeup comes at a critical juncture. Ukraine’s economy remains significantly smaller than before the war, despite ongoing foreign aid and wartime adaptations by local businesses. With international assistance expected to decline in 2026, the country faces a daunting $40 billion financing gap.
Lawmakers confirmed that Parliament will vote on the new government lineup on Thursday. The outcome will set the tone for Ukraine’s political and economic direction over the next six months, as officials seek to stabilise the nation amid intensifying conflict and shrinking financial reserves.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
