**Zelenskyy Endorses Naftogaz Chief Koretskyi for Prime Minister Amid Cabinet Reshuffle**
Kyiv, Ukraine – President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced his support for Sergii Koretskyi, the CEO of Ukraine's national oil and gas company Naftogaz, as the next prime minister of Ukraine. This endorsement comes as the country prepares for its second cabinet reshuffle within a year, following the resignation of Yulia Svyrydenko, who served as prime minister for just over a year.
In a statement made on Wednesday, Zelenskyy emphasized the urgency of the situation, particularly with winter approaching and the ongoing threat of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. "The priorities are clear – preparing for winter," he stated, highlighting the need for effective leadership in managing the country's energy resources during a challenging period. Zelenskyy expressed confidence that Koretskyi is the most qualified candidate to lead the government through these pressing issues.
The Ukrainian parliament is set to vote on Koretskyi's appointment on Thursday. Given that Zelenskyy's party holds a majority in the parliament, it is anticipated that Koretskyi will be approved as the new prime minister. His selection marks a significant shift in leadership as the nation navigates ongoing conflict and seeks to bolster its energy security.
Svyrydenko's resignation was officially accepted by parliament on Tuesday, paving the way for the upcoming vote. The resignation of a prime minister typically triggers the resignation of the entire cabinet, suggesting that a broader reshuffle may be imminent. This situation has raised questions about the future of other key government officials, particularly Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who has been in office for six months and is known for his advocacy of technological innovations within the military.
Zelenskyy is expected to meet with Fedorov and military leaders to discuss the defence minister's position in the new cabinet. The president has not provided extensive details regarding the reasons behind the cabinet changes but has indicated that Ukraine is pursuing a new "political strategy" that necessitates fresh appointments across various sectors, including government and law enforcement.
This new strategy is said to focus on several key foreign policy objectives, including the production of Patriot air defense systems under license, advancing Ukraine's aspirations for European Union membership, and strengthening ties with Gulf countries, which Zelenskyy described as vital for security and economic cooperation.
As Ukraine continues to face significant challenges, both on the battlefield and in governance, the selection of a new prime minister and potential cabinet reshuffle will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers. The upcoming parliamentary vote will be a critical moment for the Zelenskyy administration as it seeks to solidify its leadership and respond effectively to the ongoing crisis.