Ukrainian President Proposes New Defense Minister: Former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy proposed current Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal as the new Defense Minister. Zelenskiy stated that Shmyhal's extensive experience would be valuable in the role, which requires the country's maximum resources and responsibility. Zelenskiy also proposed Yulia Svyrydenko, the current first deputy prime minister, to head the new government as prime minister. The appointments require parliamentary approval.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed current Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to serve as the new Defense Minister, a move aimed at leveraging Shmyhal's extensive experience. Zelensky also nominated First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to head the new government as Prime Minister. These appointments require parliamentary approval [1].

Zelensky's decision to reshuffle the Cabinet comes after a series of meetings with key officials and consultations with the U.S. administration. The Ukrainian President's Office announced a coming Cabinet reshuffle on July 13, with Zelensky pledging a "transformation of the executive branch." Shmyhal has served as Ukraine's prime minister since March 2020, and no official announcement has been made regarding his resignation [1].

Shmyhal's appointment as Defense Minister would require the Ukrainian parliament to vote on his resignation and then on the appointment of a new Defense Minister. Similarly, Svyrydenko's appointment as Prime Minister would require parliamentary approval. The Ukrainian President's Office has not yet made a final decision, and the parliament has not begun gathering votes to support these changes [2].

Zelensky's proposals signal a significant shift in the Ukrainian government's leadership. Shmyhal's experience as Prime Minister and his potential to lead the Defense Ministry could be crucial in navigating the country's complex security challenges. Svyrydenko's appointment as Prime Minister reflects Zelensky's desire to renew the government's work and potentially bring in new leadership to drive economic reforms.

The appointments of Shmyhal and Svyrydenko are part of a broader reshuffle that may also include changes in the Ministry of Defense and other key positions. The choice of a new Defense Minister could influence further changes in the government, including the appointment of a new ambassador to the United States. Zelensky has previously stated that Defense Minister Rustem Umerov could be considered for this role [2].

Investors and financial professionals should closely monitor these developments, as the reshuffle could have implications for Ukraine's economic policies and its relationship with the international community. The appointment of new leaders in key positions could signal a shift in the government's priorities and strategies, potentially affecting economic stability and growth.

References:
[1] https://meduza.io/en/news/2025/07/14/zelensky-names-yulia-svyrydenko-as-ukraine-s-new-prime-minister
[2] https://mezha.net/eng/bukvy/zelensky-considers-defense-minister-umerov-as-ukraine-s-ambassador-to-the-us/