In a significant shift, Ukraine’s parliament has given the green light to the most extensive reshuffle in President Volodymyr Zelensky’s Cabinet since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. This massive reorganisation includes nine new ministers, aimed at bringing fresh perspectives to Ukraine’s government as it continues to navigate the complexities of war and governance.
New foreign minister takes charge
A notable appointment in this reshuffle is that of Andriy Sibiha, a 49-year-old former diplomat and former adviser to President Zelensky. Sibiha replaces Dmytro Kuleba as the new foreign minister. Although the change is not expected to bring any major policy changes, given that President Zelensky’s office largely controls foreign policy, it does underscore the consolidation of power around the president’s closest allies. Sibiha’s appointment is seen by many as a move to tighten control over foreign policy under the direction of Andriy Yermak, the increasingly influential presidential chief of staff. Yermak, who reportedly had clashes with Kuleba, is known for his direct involvement in managing Ukraine’s international relations.
Integration or necessity?
Critics have raised concerns over the reshuffle, suggesting President Zelensky is centralizing power within his office by appointing loyalists who have served as his advisers. Critics argue the move is a potential threat to democratic processes, with some seeing it as an attempt to circumvent parliamentary oversight. Opposition MP Iryna Gerashchenko expressed her disappointment at the president not participating in the vote to approve his new ministers, which she claims undermines parliamentary traditions and accountability.
On the other hand, Zelensky’s supporters argue that centralizing power is important during a war. Oleksandr Merezhko, an MP from Zelensky’s Servant of the People party, dismissed concerns of over-centralization. He said that in the event of war, some centralization of power is necessary to streamline decision-making and maintain coherence in the country’s strategic direction. “After all, he is the commander-in-chief and we are fighting a war,” Merezhko said. “The whole state is like an army right now.”
Key appointments reflect strategic focus
The new appointees include Oleksiy Kuleba, a key adviser to the president, who has been named deputy prime minister in charge of reconstruction, regions and infrastructure. His previous role as deputy head of the presidential office underscores his close ties to Zelensky, highlighting the president’s strategy of relying on trusted allies to manage critical wartime responsibilities. Kuleba’s appointment suggests a continued focus on rebuilding the country and ensuring that infrastructure can support both military and civilian needs.
In another significant move, Olha Stephanishina, a 38-year-old politician known for her work on European integration, has been reappointed as deputy prime minister in charge of European integration and justice. This dual role reflects Ukraine’s intention to accelerate its efforts towards EU membership. Addressing parliament, Stephanishina stressed the need for “hundreds and thousands” of legal changes in line with EU standards, reflecting a commitment to institutional reforms despite the ongoing conflict.
Newly appointed strategic industries minister Herman Smetanin, 32, will focus on boosting domestic arms production. The appointment comes at a crucial time when Ukrainian forces are facing intense Russian attacks in the eastern Donetsk region, while Russia is launching a counteroffensive in the Kursk border province. Smetanin’s role will be crucial in ensuring a steady supply of weapons and military equipment to the frontline, which is vital to sustain Ukraine’s war efforts.
Balancing reform with war efforts
President Zelenskyy’s decision to reshuffle the cabinet at such a critical juncture underscores his determination to adapt his government to the evolving needs of wartime leadership. Speaking in his nightly address from Kyiv, Zelenskyy stressed the need for a “more proactive” government to secure assistance from Western allies, suggesting that the new appointees are expected to step up Ukraine’s diplomatic engagement and efforts to garner international support.
The reshuffle also comes against the backdrop of previous dismissals of prominent figures such as Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov, who was fired last year following multiple corruption scandals, and Kyiv’s top military commander Valeriy Zaluzhnyy, who was also removed earlier this year. These dismissals, along with the current reshuffle, indicate a pattern of decisive action by Zelenskyy to replace officials deemed ineffective or controversial.
While some analysts argue that this approach could lead to a more streamlined and efficient government, others see the move as a “more aggressive” one.
