Ukraine plans leadership changes in energy sector and government

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed appointing Denys Shmyhal to the posts of First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Energy, according to a statement published on the head of state’s Telegram channel and cited by Caliber.Az.

Zelenskyy said he had held a meeting with Shmyhal and praised his work at the Ministry of Defence, noting the systematic approach he applied there and the processes launched to strengthen the country’s protection. The president stressed that this same approach is now urgently needed in the energy sector.

According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine must be capable of rapidly restoring energy infrastructure after each Russian strike, while also ensuring the stable and sufficient development of the energy system to meet the country’s needs.

He added that consultations on the appointment had already taken place with Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko and said he expects the support of members of parliament for Shmyhal’s candidacy as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy.

The proposal comes amid a broader reshuffle of senior officials that has already been announced. Kyrylo Budanov has been appointed head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, while Oleg Ivashchenko has taken over as head of the Main Intelligence Directorate.

At the same time, Serhiy Deineko has been dismissed from his post as head of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. He is expected to continue working within the system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko is set to submit a new candidate for the position of head of the State Border Guard Service.

By Tamilla Hasanova