Svyrydenko declined to take up the post of head of the Ukrainian Embassy in the US
This has been reported by Suspilne, citing three sources close to the Prime Minister. According to them, Svyrydenko is not currently considering the post of Ukraine’s ambassador to the US.
Did Zelenskyy offer Svyrydenko the post of ambassador?
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has not publicly stated that he offered Svyrydenko a diplomatic post in Washington specifically. The President said that she could lead a new and important direction in relations with one of Ukraine’s key partners.
Among the priorities of the updated foreign policy strategy, Zelenskyy specifically mentioned cooperation with the United States. This refers to agreements regarding the Patriot systems, defence projects involving Ukrainian and American companies, as well as other security issues.
Earlier, a source at the President’s Office speaking to Suspilne claimed that Svyrydenko’s resignation was explained by the need to replace Ukraine’s ambassador to the US. Officially, neither the President nor the Prime Minister cited such a reason for the personnel changes.
What Svyrydenko herself said
Following her meeting with Zelenskyy, Svyrydenko stated that she was ready to continue her public service, defend national interests and work to strengthen Ukraine’s position.
She did not specify a particular post. Svyrydenko’s statement also made no mention of the Ukrainian Embassy in the US or a move to Washington.
Who currently heads the Ukrainian Embassy in the US
Olga Stefanishyna remains Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United States. In early July, she continued her public engagements in Washington and commented on Ukrainian-American relations on behalf of the embassy.
Media reports suggested that Stefanishyna might step down from her diplomatic post of her own accord. Suspilne contacted her for comment on her possible resignation, but had not received a response by the time of publication.
When will Svyrydenko’s resignation be considered?
Svyrydenko’s resignation letter has already been submitted to the Verkhovna Rada. The Parliamentary Committee on the Organisation of State Power was due to consider it on 14 July at 10.30 am before bringing the matter before the plenary session.
If the Verkhovna Rada approves the Prime Minister’s resignation, this will result in the resignation of the entire Cabinet of Ministers. Svyrydenko and the current ministers will continue to carry out their duties until the new government takes office.
According to three sources at Suspilne within the Office of the President and the government, one of the leading candidates for the post of the new Prime Minister is Serhiy Koretskyi, head of the Naftogaz group. His candidacy has not yet been officially submitted to the Verkhovna Rada.
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