Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has submitted Yevhenii Khmara’s candidacy for the position of Minister of Defense. Khmara is currently serving as acting defense minister, and his appointment requires approval from the Verkhovna Rada.
Khmara took over as acting minister on July 20 following the dismissal of his predecessor, Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov’s removal triggered political reactions and protests in Ukraine, with his supporters calling for his return to the Defense Ministry.
Zelensky has also nominated Andrii Sybiha for the position of Foreign Minister. Sybiha is likewise currently serving in an acting capacity.
The Ukrainian parliament is expected to consider and vote on both nominations on August 19. Ahead of the vote, Khmara and Sybiha are expected to meet with representatives of parliamentary factions and groups.
The changes at the helm of the two ministries come at a critical time for Ukraine, as the country continues its war with Russia and faces major challenges in both defense and international diplomacy.
