Ukrainian parliament confirms new government

Ukraine's parliament has approved a new government, confirming 16 ministers in a significant cabinet reshuffle initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The new government is headed by Prime Minister Serhiy Kurykyi, who previously led the state energy company Naftogaz and is tasked with preparing the country for the upcoming winter.

“

Until all legal procedures are completed, Khmara will lead the ministry on an interim basis.

A notable change involves the defense ministry, where Mykhailo Fedorov has been dismissed. Zelenskyy has proposed Yevheniy Khmara, a high-ranking intelligence official with the rank of Major General, as Fedorov's successor. Khmara, who has reportedly specialized in drone operations behind Russian lines, will temporarily lead the ministry until legal procedures are completed. However, Ukrainian law requires the defense minister to be a civilian, presenting a potential challenge for Khmara's appointment.

Fedorov's removal, despite being considered a reformer, has not gone unnoticed. Protests have erupted in Kyiv and other cities following his dismissal. This marks the fourth change in the defense minister position since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, highlighting the ongoing instability in key leadership roles during wartime.

“

The dismissal of Fedorov, who was considered a reformer, was accompanied by protests in Kyiv and other cities.

Not all ministerial positions have changed, with several ministers from the previous government retaining their posts. These include Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal, who also remains first deputy prime minister. Ivan Vyhivskyi, the former police chief, has been appointed as the new interior minister. Additionally, the role of deputy prime minister for EU and NATO integration, crucial for Ukraine's accession talks, will now be led by Vsevolod Chentsov, replacing Taras Kachka without explanation.

“

According to Ukrainian law, the minister must be a civilian.