Zelenskyy names new prime minister to lead war-tired Ukraine

Kyiv, July 18 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has named a new prime minister: Yulia Svyrydenko, the former economy minister and a key negotiator in Ukraine’s recent mineral partnership deal with the United States.

This marks the first time Zelenskyy has appointed a new head of government since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Svyrydenko, 39, is seen as a trusted ally of Zelenskyy with strong diplomatic experience, especially with the U.S. and Western nations. She helped secure the mineral deal, which is seen as a way to deepen U.S. involvement in Ukraine’s long-term security, and previously played a key role in pushing for international sanctions on Russia.

Outgoing Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who held the post since March 2020, will now serve as defense minister. His appointment comes as Ukraine looks to increase domestic weapons production amid ongoing Russian attacks and shifting global attention. Svyrydenko, after being approved by parliament, posted on X (formerly Twitter):
"War leaves no room for delay. We must act swiftly. Our top priorities: ensuring army supplies, expanding local weapons production, and strengthening defense technology."

Zelenskyy has reshuffled several top positions as part of an effort to reinvigorate the country’s leadership. However, most of the new appointees are already trusted members of his team, so this isn’t seen as a major change in direction.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently returned to the White House, endorsed a plan for European allies to buy American-made weapons—like air defense systems—to send to Ukraine. He also warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that he would impose harsh tariffs on countries buying Russian oil if Putin doesn’t agree to a ceasefire within 50 days.

Also on Thursday, Zelenskyy nominated Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s former European integration minister, as the new ambassador to the U.S. For now, she will serve as a special representative for U.S. relations. Zelenskyy had earlier said he planned to replace the current ambassador, Oksana Markarova, following recent tensions with Washington since Trump took office again.

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