On Sunday, July 12, Ukrainian President Zelensky announced adjustments to the position of Prime Minister held by Yulia Svyrydenko for just over a year, stating that “Ukraine is changing its political strategy.” According to Ukrainian law, the resignation of the Prime Minister must be approved by the parliament, and once approved, it would mean the entire government team resigns.
In a lengthy statement on Sunday on X platform, Zelensky mentioned, “We have discussed the details with Yulia and have determined that these changes require a cabinet reshuffle. I appreciate her clear, steady, and efficient work as Prime Minister, and I thank her for her effective service over the years in the Ukrainian team. I have offered her an opportunity to lead a completely new and important area involving a key partner.”
However, Zelensky did not name a successor in the statement, nor did he specify Svyrydenko’s new position.
Opposition parliament member Yaroslav Zhelezniak revealed that Svyrydenko is likely to be appointed as Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States. As the resignation of the Prime Minister requires parliamentary approval, this will impact the retention of the entire government team.
On the same day, Prime Minister Svyrydenko confirmed the matter on X platform. She stated that she discussed the challenges facing Ukraine, the need for government reform, and relations with international partners with Zelensky, but did not provide further details in the statement.
She said, “At this moment, uniting all of our strengths and resources to make Ukraine stronger is crucial. I thank the President (Zelensky) for his trust in me and his high evaluation of our team’s work. Leading the government in the most challenging period of modern Ukrainian history is an honor for me.”
She added, “I thank every soldier defending Ukrainian land; they are our strength and the foundation of our independence. I am ready to serve Ukraine and fulfill all tasks aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s position, defending national interests, and promoting a just and peaceful resolution.”
Svyrydenko took office as Ukrainian Prime Minister in July 2025 and previously served as Deputy Prime Minister in charge of economic development and trade for nearly four years.
Zelensky released a lengthy statement on X platform on Sunday, announcing a cabinet reshuffle. He stated that in foreign affairs, Ukraine will appoint “people with rich experience” to ensure they can implement consensus among the leadership and meet the expectations of the Ukrainian people.
The statement mentioned that one of the most important issues is the agreements reached with the United States on the local production authorization of the “Patriot” missile system in Ukraine and other bilateral security cooperation, which must bring tangible benefits to both countries.
The European missile defense plan is also an important step in strengthening European security over the past decade. Relations with the European Union need clear progress on Ukraine’s accession, deepening connections in economic, political, and cultural areas. Additionally, relationships between Poland and Hungary need new foundations for support.
Zelensky also mentioned that the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region hold great potential for security and economic cooperation. He believes that if China can leverage its influence, it can help end the Russia-Ukraine conflict earlier.
Zelensky explained that there are many new challenges and tasks in Ukraine’s domestic affairs that need to be addressed, including countering attacks from Russia, strengthening the Ukrainian military’s offensive and defensive capabilities, and the transformation of state-owned enterprises. He emphasized that preparing for the winter is an extremely important task, and Ukraine must be prepared for any potential threats.
He stated that based on the above reasons, Ukraine will initiate personnel changes to ensure the implementation of the updated political strategy. He added, “I look forward to working with parliament members to complete the corresponding adjustments to the Ukrainian government, and there will also be changes in the senior staff of law enforcement agencies.”