Zelensky moves to replace Ukraine PM, triggering Cabinet exit
Why it matters: Under Ukrainian law, a prime minister’s resignation brings down the entire government and opens the way for a broader reshuffle.
President Volodymyr Zelensky moved on July 12 to replace Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko after about a year in the job, setting off the resignation of Ukraine’s government. Zelensky said the shake-up was needed to carry out an “updated political strategy” and added that changes would also reach the heads of law enforcement agencies. He did not name a successor or say what role Svyrydenko might take next. Lawmakers cited possible contenders including Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal, Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Naftogaz head Serhiy Koretskyi. The move comes after a major corruption scandal tied to Energoatom and figures close to Zelensky cast a shadow over Kyiv’s efforts to reassure Western allies.