Zelensky Names Serhiy Koretsky as Prime Minister Candidate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially nominated Naftogaz head Serhiy Koretsky for the position of Prime Minister, emphasizing the urgent need for robust preparation for the upcoming winter season.

Prioritizing Winter Energy Security

President Zelensky announced his choice during a Wednesday press conference in Kyiv alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. He stated that after extensive consultations, Koretsky is the most qualified individual to lead the government through the critical winter period.

The previous winter was exceptionally difficult for Ukraine due to Russian strikes on energy infrastructure, which caused widespread power outages and heating failures amid severe frost.

Behind the Nomination

According to Ukrainska Pravda, Zelensky first proposed the role to Koretsky during a private meeting on July 13. While initially surprised, the Naftogaz CEO confirmed his readiness to serve. Other candidates, including Denys Shmyhal, Mykhailo Fedorov, and Ihor Terekhov, were considered, but Koretsky remained the president’s top choice.

Koretsky recently accompanied the president during the NATO summit in Ankara, participating in discussions with world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, and coordinating future support for the Ukrainian energy sector.

Resignation of Yuliia Svyrydenko

Zelensky announced the resignation of Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko on Sunday, citing the need for a government “reboot.” On Tuesday, parliament voted 258 to 0 to approve her resignation, which also triggered the resignation of the entire cabinet.

While official reasons remain vague, commentators suggest the move may be linked to the political fallout from corruption investigations involving Andriy Yermak. Sources indicate Svyrydenko may be offered the post of Ambassador to the U.S., though she has not yet formally accepted.

Koretsky’s Professional Background

Serhiy Koretsky has served as head of Ukrnafta since November 2022, tasked with managing state-seized energy assets. He transitioned to lead Naftogaz in May 2025, where he inherited a company struggling with record-low gas reserves.

Koretsky is scheduled to meet with the Servant of the People faction on July 15 to discuss the future cabinet. Parliamentary voting on his formal appointment is expected to take place on Thursday.