Zelenskiy's Major Government Shakeup Amid War: New Ministers Appointed

Ukrainian lawmakers appointed a new foreign minister and two new deputy prime ministers, reflecting President Zelenskiy's largest government shakeup since the Russian invasion in February 2022. Andrii Sybiha replaces Dmytro Kuleba as foreign minister, while Olha Stefanyshyna and Oleksiy Kuleba take on expanded roles. The changes are not expected to significantly alter policy.

Ukrainian lawmakers on Thursday appointed a new foreign minister and two new deputy prime ministers, marking President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's largest government shakeup since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Andrii Sybiha, an experienced diplomat, will replace Dmytro Kuleba, a well-known figure in the West, as the foreign minister.

Despite the leadership change, significant shifts in policy are not anticipated. Zelenskiy and his office have been pivotal in directing foreign affairs during the ongoing war with Russia. Zelenskiy, who is set to visit the United States this month, aims to present a 'victory plan' to President Joe Biden, emphasizing the need for 'new energy' for Ukraine.

Opposition lawmaker Dmytro Razumkov predicted minimal impact from the new appointments, noting that key decisions are often centralized within Zelenskiy's office, which has gained extensive emergency powers under wartime martial law. Olha Stefanyshyna was re-appointed as deputy prime minister for European integration, with an expanded role that now includes oversight of the justice ministry. Additionally, Oleksiy Kuleba was appointed as deputy prime minister responsible for reconstruction, regions, and infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)