It’s time, Ukraine: Kiev braces for a final reckoning
RT3 days
Yulia Svyrydenko Appointed Ukraine's New Prime Minister
Above: Yulia Svyrydenko (L) applauds Denys Shmyhal (R) after the Verkhovna Rada accepted Denys Shmyhal’s resignation as prime minister of Ukraine on July 16, 2025. Image copyright: Andrii Nesterenko/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
This reshuffle, forming one of the smallest cabinets in Ukraine's history, represents smart wartime leadership focused on results. Svyrydenko proved her worth in negotiating the vital minerals deal with the Trump administration, demonstrating her ability to deliver for Ukraine when it matters most. The government streamlining eliminates bureaucratic waste while keeping experienced hands like Shmyhal in critical defense roles.
Opposition narrative
The shake-up does not open up any new perspectives, but rather indicates that Zelenskyy's regime is coming under increasing pressure from Russia and the Trump administration as the war continues and is attempting to consolidate his power. Replacing one loyalist with another does not address Ukraine's fundamental governance issues, and the timing, during martial law, raises questions about constitutional legitimacy.