KYIV, Ukraine — Ukraine’s parliament confirmed Serhii Koretskyi as the country’s new prime minister on Thursday, placing the veteran energy executive in charge of the wartime government as Kyiv prepares for another winter of Russian attacks on critical infrastructure and mounting economic challenges.
The 48-year-old becomes Ukraine’s third prime minister since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Koretskyi’s immediate priority will be preparing the country for what officials expect could become the most difficult winter of the war.
Koretskyi assumes office at a time of growing pressure to safeguard Ukraine’s energy system, stabilize the economy, strengthen domestic weapons production and maintain international military and financial support. He also inherits a government facing renewed political scrutiny following a broader cabinet reshuffle.
Business Leader Takes Wartime Role
Unlike many of Ukraine’s senior political figures, Koretskyi built his career in business rather than government.
A trained engineer, he spent more than two decades managing companies in the fuel and food industries before taking leadership roles at several state-owned energy enterprises. During that time, he developed a reputation for restructuring struggling organizations, improving efficiency and restoring financial stability.
His appointment reflects the government’s emphasis on practical management experience as Ukraine continues to confront the economic and logistical demands of the war.
Addressing lawmakers after his confirmation, Koretskyi said his immediate priorities include protecting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, strengthening the economy, ensuring the efficient use of international assistance and expanding domestic weapons production.
Energy Experience Shapes New Leadership
Koretskyi took charge of oil producer Ukrnafta and refinery operator Ukrtatnafta in 2022 after the Ukrainian government assumed control of the companies from businessman Ihor Kolomoiskyi.
Under his leadership, Ukrnafta reported record profits, settled outstanding tax obligations and increased production. The company also became one of Ukraine’s largest taxpayers while supplying fuel to the military and contributing financial support for drone procurement.
Last year, Koretskyi was appointed chief executive of Naftogaz, the country’s state-owned energy company, as Ukraine faced declining natural gas reserves and intensified Russian strikes on critical infrastructure.
He launched an operational audit and organizational restructuring designed to improve efficiency, although the reforms drew criticism from some employees because of staffing reductions and internal changes.
Government officials said Naftogaz rebuilt its natural gas reserves to more than 13 billion cubic meters under Koretskyi’s leadership while securing nearly $1 billion in additional financing.
Winter Preparations Become Immediate Priority
Ukraine expects Russia to continue targeting its energy infrastructure during the coming winter after repeated missile and drone attacks in previous cold seasons disrupted electricity generation, heating systems and gas supplies across the country.
Zelenskyy described Koretskyi as “the most prepared candidate” to lead the government, citing his experience managing the energy sector and his understanding of the challenges facing Ukraine’s power network.
Protecting critical infrastructure remains one of Kyiv’s highest priorities as Russian forces continue to target power plants, gas facilities and electricity distribution networks.
Government Reshuffle Draws Public Criticism
Koretskyi’s appointment came as hundreds of demonstrators gathered in central Kyiv to protest the broader government reshuffle announced this week.
Protesters accused Zelenskyy of unfairly sidelining Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose removal from the post prompted criticism from some supporters.
The demonstrations highlighted the political challenges awaiting the new prime minister as he seeks to maintain public confidence while leading a government operating under wartime conditions.
Beyond overseeing Ukraine’s economy and energy security, Koretskyi will also be responsible for coordinating closely with Kyiv’s international partners, whose military and financial assistance remains essential to Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion. As the country prepares for another difficult winter, his ability to balance wartime governance with long-term economic stability is expected to become one of the defining tests of his leadership.
This report is based on reporting by The Associated Press.
Article Topics: Ukraine | Serhii Koretskyi | Volodymyr Zelenskyy | Prime Minister | Energy Security | Russia-Ukraine War | Government Reshuffle | Economy
