Ukrainian PM Resigns Ahead Government Reshuffle Amid War

Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has formally resigned, paving the way for a significant government reshuffle initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy has nominated Shmyhal, who has served since 2020, as the new defense minister to replace Rustem Umerov, while Yulia Svyrydenko, the current deputy prime minister and economy minister known for her role in securing US-Ukraine mineral agreements, is expected to become the new prime minister. The Ukrainian parliament is anticipated to approve these appointments shortly, with Zelenskyy’s party holding a majority. This reshuffle comes amid ongoing military pressure from Russia and internal challenges within the Defense Ministry, which has faced corruption scandals and management issues. Umerov is likely to be appointed Ukraine’s ambassador to Washington, replacing Oksana Markarova. The changes reflect Zelenskyy’s efforts to strengthen governance and defense amid the ongoing conflict and state of emergency in Ukraine.