Zelenskiy Reshuffles Cabinet to Win Over Ukrainian Public—and Trump

KYIV – July 2025: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has launched a sweeping cabinet reshuffle, signaling a new chapter in wartime leadership. The dual objective is clear: restore public confidence at home and prepare for the possible return of Donald Trump to the White House.

The move, which comes amid political uncertainty in Washington and growing domestic pressure, marks the most significant government overhaul since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Yulia Svyrydenko: Fresh Face, Strategic Choice

Zelenskiy has nominated Yulia Svyrydenko (39)—a pro-Western economist and current Deputy Prime Minister—as Ukraine’s new Prime Minister. If confirmed by parliament, she will replace Denys Shmyhal.

Why this matters:

Public perception: Svyrydenko is seen as a modern, reformist figure—symbolizing change and professional competence.

Washington ties: She has strong working relationships in D.C. and played a key role in a minerals-for-aid deal that appealed to both Democrats and Republicans.

Denys Shmyhal Moves to Defense

Zelenskiy plans to appoint outgoing PM Denys Shmyhal as the new Defense Minister, tasking him with fixing Ukraine’s troubled defense procurement system.

📊 Ukraine spends nearly 26% of its GDP (~$53 billion) on defense, making transparency and efficiency in military spending a national priority.

Preparing for Trump: Diplomatic Realignment

The reshuffle isn’t just domestic—it’s deeply strategic. Zelenskiy is recalibrating Ukraine’s message to the U.S. in case Donald Trump returns to power in 2025:

Ambassador shift: Ukraine is reportedly considering replacing its ambassador in Washington to better connect with Trump allies.

Policy positioning: Svyrydenko is seen as more compatible with Republican views on spending and foreign aid.

Messaging change: Kyiv wants to show pragmatism, responsibility, and self-reliance—key themes for the Trump base.

Reactions and Risks

Domestic response: Ukrainians largely welcome new faces but some worry it’s “reshuffling insiders” rather than bringing true renewal.

Global outlook: Western observers view the move as bold and forward-looking, especially given that Ukraine cannot hold elections due to martial law.

Strategic Summary

This cabinet overhaul is more than just a change in leadership—it’s a political and diplomatic recalibration aimed at:

Reenergizing Ukraine’s domestic leadership

Gaining bipartisan support in the U.S.

Demonstrating institutional maturity under crisis

In a time when Ukraine faces both external threats and internal fatigue, Zelenskiy is betting that the right team—and the right message—can ensure continued Western support and renewed public trust.