Zelensky moves to replace Svyrydenko amid graft backlash

2026-07-13

Cabinet renewal announced

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the 12th that he intended to replace Prime Minister Svyrydenko. With criticism of the government continuing over a corruption case uncovered in 2025, the move is aimed at restoring his political grip through a reshuffle.

Zelensky posted on X, formerly Twitter, that 'I have decided we need to renew the cabinet.' He stressed that he would bring changes to the government together with lawmakers to address a wide range of domestic and international issues.

Successor candidates and tensions in government

Zelensky thanked Svyrydenko for her record and proposed that she take on an important role handling relations with key partner countries. Local media reported that he had offered her the post of ambassador to the United States.

Possible successors include Defence Minister Fedorov, First Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Shmyhal, and Serhii Koretskyi, chief executive of state-owned Naftogaz. Svyrydenko became prime minister in July 2025, meaning the change would come after about a year.

Tasks for the new cabinet

The new administration will have to strengthen ties with the United States and maintain the ability to keep fighting as it prepares for a long war with Russia. Zelensky set as diplomatic priorities the licensed production of Patriot missiles agreed with the United States and accession talks with the European Union.

He said Ukraine would also build up output of weapons, including drones, and focus on protecting energy facilities ahead of the winter demand season. He added that 'there will also be changes at the top of the judiciary,' with personnel changes at the State Bureau of Investigation under discussion after criticism over heavy-handed investigations into anti-corruption activists.

Unease over the government's base deepened further with the large-scale corruption case involving state nuclear company Energoatom, which came to light in November 2025. Former presidential chief of staff Yermak, seen as a patron of Svyrydenko, was forced out after being suspected of involvement.

Power concentrated in the presidential office has been reconsidered, and the Verkhovna Rada has gained more influence. Some lawmakers from Zelensky's ruling Servant of the People party, angered by the corruption scandal, have increasingly rebelled against the government on key bills, forcing Zelensky to work to secure a majority.

Political analyst Anatolii Oktysiuk said influential lawmakers in the ruling party had demanded Svyrydenko's dismissal in return for helping pass legislation. 'Some lawmakers want Shmyhal, who is close to them, to become prime minister,' he said.

Svyrydenko acknowledged her resignation on the 12th and posted on social media that 'it is important for all forces to unite to make Ukraine stronger.'

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