On July 17, 2025, Ukraine's parliament confirmed Yulia Svyrydenko as the new Prime Minister, following a significant government reshuffle. Svyrydenko, 39, previously served as the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Trade. She becomes the second woman to lead Ukraine's government, succeeding Denys Shmyhal, who had held the position since 2020 and is now expected to assume the role of Defense Minister.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed Svyrydenko for the position, emphasizing the need for a transformation in the executive branch. The reshuffle aims to streamline ministries and enhance the efficiency of wartime spending. Svyrydenko's appointment was supported by 262 lawmakers, with 22 voting against and 26 abstaining. The new government is tasked with focusing on deregulation, expanding economic cooperation with allies, and strengthening national defense capabilities.
In her confirmation speech, Svyrydenko highlighted the government's priorities for the first six months, including ensuring reliable supplies for the military, expanding domestic weapons production, and boosting the technological strength of Ukraine's defense forces. She emphasized the urgency of these measures, stating, "War leaves no room for delay. We must act swiftly and decisively."
The reshuffle also includes other key appointments. Mykhailo Fedorov, 34, becomes First Deputy Prime Minister responsible for digital transformation, innovation, and technology, particularly in military tech. Taras Kachka is named Deputy Prime Minister for EU Integration, drawing on his experience in trade and economy. Oleksii Sobolev now leads the newly combined ministry covering economy, environment, and agriculture, crucial sectors for Ukraine’s economic recovery. Svitlana Hrynchuk serves as Energy Minister, having previously focused on energy and climate change.
These changes reflect Ukraine's ongoing efforts to adapt its leadership structure in response to the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict and to strengthen its defense and economic resilience.