In July 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced sweeping personnel changes in the government. Following extended internal consultations and amid the need to bolster economic and defense capabilities, a major reshuffle of key positions was carried out. Deputy Prime Minister Yuliya Svyrydenko became the new head of the Cabinet, and former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal moved to the position of Defense Minister. These changes are part of a broader revamp of the government team during a protracted war, when the need for swift and effective decision-making came to the forefront.
Svyrydenko’s appointment as Prime Minister was an expected step for those closely monitoring internal politics. As Minister of Economy and Deputy PM, she consistently demonstrated her ability to engage with international partners and drive reforms, particularly in post-war economic recovery. Her experience in negotiating with Washington on investments in critical sectors, including mineral extraction, as well as her involvement in defense industry projects, are seen as key elements of the new government strategy. Svyrydenko stated that the new Cabinet will “eliminate bureaucracy, optimize spending, and concentrate resources on defense and national recovery after the war.”
Meanwhile, Denys Shmyhal, who had served as Prime Minister since 2020, transitioned to the Defense Ministry. President Zelensky emphasized Shmyhal’s experience in crisis management and his ability to implement a systematic approach in defense. Shmyhal is expected to coordinate the expansion of domestic arms production, strengthen logistics, and oversee collaboration with Western defense partners. In his first comment in the new role, he said the Defense Ministry “must transform into a flexible and technologically equipped structure that meets the realities of war and frontline needs.”
Soon after the announcement, media reported that current Defense Minister Rustem Umerov could move into diplomatic service and head Ukraine’s embassy in the US. This would signal Kyiv’s intent to deepen political and military coordination with Washington. According to officials in Zelensky’s office, the new diplomatic setup in the US will “allow more efficient alignment of defense aid packages and joint weapons production programs.”
Experts point out that Svyrydenko’s political weight in the new Cabinet may help restore trust among international financial institutions. The World Bank, IMF and European Investment Bank have already welcomed her appointment and expressed readiness to continue funding Ukraine’s recovery programs, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and health sectors. With Svyrydenko at the helm, the government is expected to adopt a clear economic rehabilitation program focused on private investment and reducing the budget deficit.
At the same time, Zelensky’s office discussed a new package of civil service reforms, including a draft law to revamp the recruitment and rotation of public officials. According to government sources, these reforms aim to ensure “flexibility, rotational appointments and digitalization of the state apparatus”, which will enhance government efficiency during crises.
Internationally, the reshuffle has already drawn reactions. NATO officials expressed support for the new government composition and highlighted that “strengthening Ukraine’s internal coordination will positively influence the implementation of joint defense initiatives.” Some US senators commented that “Ukraine’s new Cabinet is more pragmatic, technocratic and result-oriented.”
In her first statement as PM, Svyrydenko pledged to start consultations with business and civil society in her first week. “We have no right to waste the nation’s potential. Every hryvnia, every resource must work for victory,” she said. President Zelensky added that “the renewed government will be the foundation for a massive breakthrough — in recovery, security and technology.”
Special attention has been given to defense manufacturing. The new Cabinet’s plan aims to roll out contract manufacturing of UAVs, air defense systems, and artillery by the end of 2025, involving private sector and foreign investors. The Defense Ministry and Economy Ministry are expected to work closely to build a next-generation defense-industrial hub. This will create thousands of jobs and boost the resilience of Ukraine’s armed forces without full dependence on foreign supplies.
The president also mentioned plans to establish a standalone post-war recovery ministry. Currently, infrastructure-related recovery falls under the Deputy PM, but a draft law is expected by September. The government is counting on support from both the parliamentary majority and Western partners, who have already agreed in principle to co-finance specific recovery projects.
Thus, Zelensky’s political reshuffle responds to a new phase of the war — one defined by speed in decision-making, coordination efficiency, and leveraging internal capabilities. Replacing leadership in the government and defense sectors, along with enhanced diplomacy in the US, is designed to propel Ukraine’s strategy of survival and victory.
Amid a prolonged war and an unstable international environment, Ukraine has chosen to deepen internal mobilization. The political reform in the government aims not only to renew the team but also to lay the foundation for a more effective state machinery capable of not only responding to threats but also shaping a new security order for the country.
