Zelensky fires Ukraine PM in wartime cabinet shake-up
World News

Zelensky fires Ukraine PM in wartime cabinet shake-up

By Advocate | July 12, 2026 | 2 min read |

Ukraine's prime minister Yuliia Svyrydenko has left office after one year in the role. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced her departure on Sunday. Svyrydenko took over as the country's 19th prime…

Ukraine's prime minister Yuliia Svyrydenko has left office after one year in the role. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced her departure on Sunday.

Svyrydenko took over as the country's 19th prime minister on July 17, 2025, following parliament's approval. She previously held the positions of first deputy prime minister and economy minister.

Zelensky said the exit forms part of broader "personnel changes" aimed at reshaping Ukraine's top leadership to support fresh political priorities. He explained that the government needs to bring in new ministers across multiple departments.

The president indicated he's offered Svyrydenko a role heading relations with a crucial international partner. He did not specify which country or the exact nature of her new position.

"There will also be changes among the heads of law enforcement agencies," Zelensky told reporters, adding that he expects parliament to back the reshuffle. The moves signal a wartime cabinet overhaul tied to Ukraine's updated strategic direction.

Each major foreign policy focus will now be handled by someone with deep relevant experience, according to the president. This includes securing U.S.-Ukraine agreements on manufacturing Patriot defence systems and strengthening bilateral security ties.

Other priorities involve Europe's antiballistic initiative, designed to boost the continent's defensive capabilities and deterrence. Advancing Ukraine's bid for EU membership ranks among the key goals.

Zelensky highlighted plans to deepen relationships with Western allies, as well as forge stronger connections across the Middle East and Gulf states. The country also intends to expand engagement with China and key international bodies with influence over global affairs.

These moves aim to build broader international support for ending Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. The reshuffle comes as Kyiv seeks to consolidate backing from multiple regions and organisations.

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