Ukrainian Parliament Backs New Wartime Cabinet, as President Zelenskyy Introduces Major Reforms
Poinews.com – The Ukrainian parliament has officially endorsed the formation of a new wartime cabinet, signaling a pivotal shift in the country’s leadership amid escalating challenges from Russian forces. This decision, announced on 16 July 2026, follows a sweeping government reorganization aimed at addressing critical vulnerabilities in Ukraine’s defense and energy sectors. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s appointment of Sergii Koretskyi as prime minister underscores his commitment to reshaping the administration to better navigate the ongoing conflict and secure long-term stability.
A Strategic Move for Energy and Defense Resilience
Koretskyi, a veteran in Ukraine’s energy sector, assumes the role of prime minister with a clear mandate to bolster the nation’s resilience against Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. His tenure at the state energy company Naftogaz since May 2025 has positioned him as a key figure in managing the country’s power systems, which have been under constant threat. With winter approaching, Kyiv’s focus on stabilizing the energy network has become a top priority, as uninterrupted electricity supply is essential for both civilian survival and military operations.
The new cabinet includes notable appointments designed to strengthen Ukraine’s strategic response to the war. Yevhenii Khmara, head of the Security Service (SBU), has been named acting Minister of Defence, a decision that reflects Zelenskyy’s confidence in his expertise in high-tech strike operations. This move aligns with the government’s broader goal of enhancing defensive capabilities, as the president emphasized the need for a unified approach to counter Russian aggression.
Defense Minister Dismissal Sparks Outcry and Political Reorganization
The appointment of Khmara as acting defence minister has been accompanied by the dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov, the former defence minister. This decision has ignited protests across Ukraine, with critics arguing that Fedorov’s removal undermines the continuity of defence policies. Zelenskyy acknowledged the public’s right to voice concerns during the conflict, framing the cabinet reshuffle as a necessary reset to realign the government’s priorities with the war’s evolving demands.
Fedorov, known for his tech-driven reforms in the defence sector, was a central figure in the early stages of Ukraine’s military modernization. His exit has led to speculation about the reasons behind the change, with some sources suggesting disagreements over the pace of military reorganization. Despite the controversy, the president has emphasized that the new appointments will ensure a more cohesive strategy in the face of persistent Russian threats.
The restructured cabinet also includes significant adjustments to key roles. Vsevolod Chentsov, who has overseen Ukraine’s EU mission since 2021, has been elevated to deputy prime minister for European integration. This change allows Kyiv to maintain experienced officials in critical EU accession efforts while realigning their responsibilities to address immediate wartime needs. Meanwhile, Taras Kachka, previously in the same role, is set to return to Brussels, according to Euronews reports.
With the foreign minister position still pending confirmation, Andrii Sybiha is widely expected to retain his role, as the parliament is anticipated to approve the final appointments by late August. This decision highlights the balance Zelenskyy is seeking between domestic governance and international diplomacy. The new cabinet’s composition is seen as a reflection of the president’s efforts to consolidate power and streamline decision-making processes in the war-torn nation.
