The Ukrainian Parliament approved on Thursday the appointment of Sergii Koretskyi as the new Prime Minister of the country, at a time marked by the war against Russia, the need to strengthen national defense, and the progress of negotiations for integration into the European Union. The designation, pushed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, received broad legislative support, with 289 votes in favor and only one against, making Koretskyi the third head of the Ukrainian government since the start of the large-scale Russian invasion in February 2022.
His arrival in office comes just two days after the departure of the previous Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, whose resignation automatically triggered the resignation of the cabinet, according to Ukrainian legislation. Zelensky has taken advantage of this reorganization to push for a profound renewal of the Executive, aiming to adapt the state apparatus to a new stage of the conflict.
Before the parliamentary vote, Koretskyi presented the main lines of his future government and assured that his priorities will be to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities, maintain economic stability, and accelerate the process of joining the European Union.
After being confirmed in office, the new Prime Minister reiterated those commitments in a message posted on social media X. He pointed out that strengthening the Armed Forces will be the immediate goal of his administration and stated that he will work to expand the production of the national defense industry, with special attention to developing capabilities for long-range attacks.
At the same time, he highlighted the importance of preparing the country for the upcoming winter, ensuring timely payment of pensions and social assistance, sustaining the operation of essential public services, and supporting both businesses and communities near the front lines. He also promised to maintain close cooperation with international allies to secure new financial resources and efficiently utilize the assistance received by Ukraine.
The governmental restructuring also reached the Ministry of Defense. Zelensky announced the appointment of Yevhenii Khmara, the current interim head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), as acting Minister of Defense and confirmed that he will request the Parliament for his final ratification.
The president explained that the SBU has demonstrated a remarkable ability to carry out long-range operations against targets in Russian territory and considered that this experience will be key to driving reforms in the defense sector and strengthening the country's war effort.
However, the changes in the Executive also provoked internal criticism. During the day, several citizens took to the streets to protest the dismissal of the previous Minister of Defense, reflecting the ongoing debate about the reorganization of the Government amid the conflict.
