Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled a sweeping political reshuffle aimed at giving fresh momentum to a country still locked in a war with Russia after more than three years. The overhaul comes amid intense military and diplomatic pressure and includes strategic appointments at the helm of the government and in the diplomatic corps.
A new Prime Minister with a strategic profile
On Thursday, Ukraine’s parliament approved the appointment of Yulia Svyrydenko as prime minister. At 39, she takes the reins with two clear priorities: strengthening the national economy and ramping up weapons production. A former economy minister, Svyrydenko made her mark by successfully negotiating a sensitive minerals deal with Washington—a tense process that nearly derailed U.S.-Ukraine relations. In the end, she secured the agreement and earned the trust of American partners.
Analysts point to her strong ties with senior U.S. officials. Political analyst Volodymyr Fesenko says she is well positioned to manage relations with the Trump administration. “Trump and his administration are now a priority for Ukraine. Svyrydenko has proven herself in that arena and will continue to do so,” he said. This closeness to Washington could help solidify military and economic backing. Ukraine already enjoys strong commitments from NATO and the United States. Recently, Donald Trump announced a massive rearmament program for Ukraine and gave Russia 50 days to negotiate peace. In this diplomatic context, Svyrydenko’s role is more strategic than ever.
Reshuffle aims to tighten presidential control
Zelensky has tapped outgoing Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanichyna as Ukraine’s new ambassador to the United States, replacing Oksana Markarova, who has served since the start of the Russian invasion. Markarova was known for her close ties to the Biden administration—connections that have become a liability with Donald Trump back in the White House. Stefanichyna, who was also involved in the minerals deal, will be tasked with maintaining dialogue in Washington. Her nomination comes as a surprise, as Zelensky had hinted that former defense minister Rustem Umerov might take the post.
Meanwhile, former prime minister Denys Shmyhal will take over as defense minister. His low-key technocratic profile may help stabilize an institution shaken by multiple corruption scandals. Observers expect further changes in other ministries, including Energy.
Criticism over power consolidation
The reshuffle has drawn accusations of excessive power centralization around the president. Critics argue that Zelensky is tightening the grip of his inner circle, particularly Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential administration. Svyrydenko is seen as close to this small group. The independent outlet Ukrainska Pravda described the move as “a strengthening of the presidential chief of staff’s hand.” Opposition lawmakers accuse Zelensky of running a closed political strategy and failing to engage with other political forces.
This shake-up marks a pivotal moment in Zelensky’s wartime strategy. By appointing trusted and experienced figures, he aims to shore up his government and adapt Ukraine’s diplomacy to a shifting global landscape. But the concentration of power is fueling domestic political tensions—at a time when war demands unity and efficiency. The success of these moves will depend on whether the new team can bolster defense and maintain crucial Western support.