Major Cabinet Reshuffle in Ukraine Amid War

Dmytro Kuleba Resigns as Foreign Minister

Dmytro Kuleba, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, has stepped down from his position. This is part of a significant shake-up of the cabinet by President Zelensky, which is being described as the biggest during the ongoing war. Kuleba's resignation comes after six other top officials, including several ministers, were also compelled to leave their posts. However, some of these officials are expected to assume other roles within the government. David Arakhamia, the leader of the ruling Servant of the People group in parliament, announced on Telegram that a significant reboot of the government was expected during the week. He indicated that Wednesday would be a day of layoffs, followed by a day of appointments.

Kuleba's Contributions and Resignation

Kuleba, aged 43, did not provide a reason for his resignation. His departure will be discussed by lawmakers at their next session, according to parliamentary Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk. Kuleba had submitted a handwritten letter to parliament on September 4, requesting his resignation as the foreign minister of Ukraine. Kuleba played a crucial role in securing record-setting defense aid and foreign arms deliveries for Kiev. He also lobbied Washington last year to receive Patriot missiles and was instrumental in persuading the West to approve missile strikes within Russian territory. Recently, Kuleba has been advocating for the removal of restrictions on long-range systems.

President Zelensky's Cabinet Reshuffle

The resignation of Kuleba brings the total number of Ukrainian officials, including several ministers, who have resigned amid the cabinet reshuffle to at least seven. President Zelensky has stated that this is an effort to rejuvenate Ukraine's institutions. In a Tuesday night address to the nation, Zelensky emphasized the importance of the upcoming autumn for Ukraine. He stated that the country's institutions must be structured in a way that ensures the achievement of necessary results. He also indicated that more changes and turnover within his cabinet are to be expected, and that certain aspects of Ukraine's foreign and domestic policies will be adjusted.

Recent Resignations

The following officials resigned on Tuesday night, just hours before Kuleba's resignation: - Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraine’s deputy prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration - Iryna Vereshchuk, deputy prime minister for the reintegration of temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine - Oleksandr Kamyshin, the minister of strategic industries - Denys Malyuska, Zelensky's justice minister - Ruslan Strilets, minister of environmental protection and natural resources - Vitaliy Koval, head of the state property fund Ukrainian officials have hinted that more resignations are likely to follow, and some of the officials who have already resigned are expected to remain in the government in other roles.

Possible Implications of the Reshuffle

Some observers view Kuleba's departure as a sign of a downward turn for Kiev as the war tide seems to be against it. As defeat appears inevitable for Ukrainian forces in Donetsk, these significant government changes could be directives from Washington and London. The major reshuffle and cabinet 'reform' could be a Western condition for more immediate military support. Furthermore, Zelensky might be trying to prevent expected instability in his government by preempting deep criticism over his decision-making, particularly regarding the Kursk offensive and serious manpower issues.

Bottom Line

The recent major cabinet reshuffle in Ukraine, including the resignation of Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, indicates a significant shift in the country's political landscape. As the war continues, these changes could have far-reaching implications for Ukraine's future. What are your thoughts on these developments? Share this article with your friends and sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.