Ukraine’s Rada dismisses FM Kuleba amid major Government shake-up

Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada on Thursday voted to remove Dmytro Kuleba from his role as Minister of Foreign Affairs. The decision, which saw 240 votes in favor, follows Kuleba’s resignation announcement made on Wednesday. The Rada initially postponed the discussion of Kuleba’s resignation to address other ministerial matters.

Kuleba has not publicly commented on his exit. Ukrainian broadcaster reported that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy explained in a meeting with the Servant of the People faction that Kuleba’s departure was due to a perceived lack of energy to push forward the issue of arms delivery. Kuleba’s position will be filled by his deputy, Andrii Sibiga.

In addition to Kuleba’s dismissal, the Verkhovna Rada also approved the removal of Vice Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk, who will continue her duties in the President’s office, and Olha Stefanishina, the Minister of European Integration. These changes are part of a broader government reshuffle designed to strengthen the administration ahead of President Zelenskyy’s visit to the United States.

Voice of America reported these shifts in government were aimed at consolidating Ukraine’s leadership and preparing state institutions for a critical autumn period. President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for an “efficient government” to achieve “essential outcomes” in the coming months.