On July 17, 2025, Ukraine's parliament confirmed Yulia Svyrydenko as the country's new Prime Minister, following a significant government reshuffle. Svyrydenko, 39, previously served as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Trade. Her appointment marks the first time in 15 years that a woman has held the position of Prime Minister in Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed Svyrydenko for the role, emphasizing the need for a transformation in the executive branch. The reshuffle aims to strengthen Ukraine's economic potential, expand support programs for citizens, and enhance domestic weapons production. Svyrydenko's experience includes leading international negotiations and playing a key role in Ukraine's recent minerals partnership with the United States, which is seen as crucial to linking American interests to Ukraine’s security.
Denys Shmyhal, the outgoing Prime Minister, will transition to the role of Defense Minister. This change is part of a broader effort to streamline ministries and manage wartime spending more effectively. The new government structure also includes Mykhailo Fedorov as First Deputy Prime Minister responsible for digital transformation, innovation, and technology, particularly in military tech, and Taras Kachka as Deputy Prime Minister for EU Integration, drawing on his experience in trade and economy.
Despite the support from the ruling party, some opposition lawmakers have expressed concerns about the concentration of power within the presidential office. They argue that the reshuffle may deepen executive control, especially under the current martial law conditions. However, Svyrydenko has emphasized the importance of swift and decisive action to address the challenges Ukraine faces, focusing on reliable military supplies, expanding domestic weapons production, and boosting the technological strength of the defense forces.
The new government's priorities include a comprehensive audit of public finances to achieve significant budgetary savings, accelerating large-scale privatizations, and ensuring consistent and reliable supplies to the military. These initiatives reflect a strong focus on national defense and economic restructuring as Ukraine continues to navigate the ongoing conflict and its aftermath.