Ukraine Parliament Approves Energy Chief Serhii Koretskyi as Prime Minister Amid War

Ukraine's Parliament on Thursday (July 16, 2026) approved Serhii Koretskyi, the head of state energy company Naftogaz, as the country's new Prime Minister. The decision is part of a major government reshuffle initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Mr. Zelenskyy nominated Mr. Koretskyi, citing his record in the energy sector and arguing that he was best placed to help prepare Ukraine for another wartime winter. The appointment received 289 votes in favour, surpassing the required majority.

The approval came as hundreds of protesters gathered outside Parliament to oppose Mr. Zelenskyy's dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who had served only six months. Critics warned the move could disrupt military reforms during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Mr. Koretskyi is a relatively unknown figure in national politics but has led Naftogaz, Ukraine's largest oil and gas company, since 2022. His appointment signals a focus on energy security as Ukraine faces infrastructure damage and supply challenges due to the war.

The reshuffle also includes changes to several other ministries, though details have not been fully disclosed. President Zelenskyy stated that the changes are intended to strengthen the government's response to wartime needs.

Political analysts note that the appointment underscores the importance of energy stability during the winter months. Ukraine has relied on domestic production and international support to meet its energy needs after repeated Russian attacks on power grids.

The dismissal of Defence Minister Fedorov has drawn criticism from some Western allies, who expressed concern about continuity in military reforms. However, the Ukrainian government has assured that defence policies will remain unchanged.

Mr. Koretskyi is expected to outline his government's priorities in the coming days, with a focus on energy, defence, and economic resilience.