Ukrainian Politics Has Reawakened. Zelensky Must Tread Carefully.

Ukrainian Politics Has Reawakened. Zelensky Must Tread Carefully.

The New York Timesworld

Key Points:

  • Ukraine experienced a power vacuum with key government positions—energy minister, justice minister, and presidential chief of staff—left vacant amid ongoing challenges like Russian strikes and a corruption scandal.
  • President Volodymyr Zelensky initiated a significant government reshuffle, appointing a new chief of staff and planning to replace the defense minister, signaling a move to address the administrative gaps during the war.
  • The reshuffle reflects Zelensky’s need to adapt from wartime unity governance to a more responsive political approach as Ukraine faces complex battles both militarily and diplomatically.
  • Delays in filling critical posts were partly due to a corruption scandal affecting Zelensky’s inner circle, prompting more cautious decision-making to avoid further damage to his standing.