Zelensky Backs Naftogaz Chief for PM, Fedorov's Fate Unclear

On Wednesday, President Volodymyr Zelensky endorsed Sergii Koretskyi, the head of the state-owned energy company Naftogaz, as Ukraine's new prime minister. The move comes after Zelensky dismissed the previous prime minister, Yulia Svyrydenko.

Parliament accepted her resignation on Tuesday and is expected to vote on her successor on Thursday. The president justified the personnel changes by citing the need to revitalize the country's leadership.

According to Zelensky, Koretskyi is the most suitable candidate, primarily because Ukraine's main priority at present is preparing for the upcoming winter. Parliament, where the president's party holds a majority, is expected to approve Koretskyi's appointment. The prime minister's resignation, however, automatically signals the end of the entire cabinet, opening the door to broader personnel changes within the government.

Attention is focused primarily on the fate of 35-year-old Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. An advocate for technological innovation, he has led the ministry for only six months, and the situation on the battlefield is currently developing in Ukraine's favor, thanks in part to long-range drone strikes on Russian territory.

Zelensky has not yet given a clear answer on whether Fedorov will retain his position in the new cabinet. He said that he will meet with the minister and military leadership later on Wednesday and will then discuss the situation with lawmakers from the ruling party.

(Reuters, Max)