Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada has approved Serhiy Koretskyi as the country’s prime minister. His appointment was supported by 289 lawmakers, while one voted against and 21 did not take part in the vote.
Koretskyi is 48 years old. He was nominated for the post by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Before taking over Naftogaz in 2025, he had led Ukrnafta for three years.
According to sources cited by Ukrainska Pravda, when offering Koretskyi the premiership, Zelensky named protection of Ukraine’s energy system and preparation for the coming winter among the key priorities. The outlet said the season could be the hardest since the start of the war because of Russian attacks.
On July 14, the Verkhovna Rada voted to dismiss former Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and her cabinet. Zelensky had announced the resignation on July 12 as part of what he described as a change in political strategy.
Earlier, Ukrainska Pravda reported that Zelensky intended to nominate Naftogaz chief Serhiy Koretskyi for prime minister. According to the publication, the new head of government’s priority will be preparing Ukraine’s energy sector for winter and possible further strikes.