Major Cabinet Reshuffles on the Horizon: Who Could Assume Key Positions Soon
Amid anticipated extensive personnel changes within Ukraine's government, expected to occur as early as July 15, new details have emerged regarding potential appointments and reshuffles. According to Yurii Zhelezniak, a Member of Parliament from the 'Holos' faction, significant changes within the Cabinet of Ministers could take place in the next two weeks. Most of the new appointments are likely to involve insiders, particularly first deputies of current ministers, reflecting a logic of internal rotation aimed at forming a new core team of experienced professionals who have previously held or currently hold leadership positions in the government. Zhelezniak indicated that among potential appointments are Yulia Svyrydenko, currently the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, who could become the new Prime Minister. Her possible successor could be Oleksii Kuleba, responsible for reconstruction of communities and territories, or Oleksii Sobolev, the deputy economy minister. The position of Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration is expected to remain unchanged. Officials at risk of losing or changing their roles include Iryna Mudra, who may be appointed Minister of Justice if Oksana Zholnovich is dismissed, and Vitalii Koval, who will likely stay as Minister of Agriculture. Other ministers, such as those overseeing culture, defense, energy, and ecology, are expected to retain their posts. However, key cabinet figures like Health Minister Viktor Liashko and Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko are likely to be replaced or have their responsibilities redistributed. The motivation behind these personnel shifts appears to be the government's desire to demonstrate renewal and strengthen its team, especially considering President Zelensky's recent assurance that he does not intend to resign and his denial of rumors about Prime Minister Shmyhal's imminent departure. Zelensky emphasized that no formal discussions about his resignation have taken place and that any personnel decisions will be made based on current circumstances. Analysts interpret these changes as part of efforts to modernize and adapt the government ahead of upcoming political events, ensuring stability and continuity amid ongoing challenges.