Ukraine: Zelensky's govt in crisis, 5 key ministers resign amid Russian attack

The Ukrainian government, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky, has been thrown into disarray as multiple high-ranking officials have resigned, just as Russia intensifies its military offensive. In a major blow, five key ministers, including Ukraine's top weapons chief, have stepped down ahead of Zelensky's planned visit to the United States. Additionally, the head of Ukraine’s drone warfare program has been dismissed, reportedly due to links with Russia. According to the sources, foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has also resigned.

Key ministers resign

Among those who have resigned are Oleksandr Kamyshin, the minister responsible for overseeing domestic weapons production. He joins Justice Minister Denis Maliuska and Environment Minister Ruslan Strylets in leaving their posts. These resignations have left President Zelensky grappling with a leadership vacuum at a critical time.

Notably, Vitaly Koval, head of the State Property Fund, has also resigned just nine months into his tenure, further exacerbating the situation. Though no official reasons have been provided for the exodus, rumors suggest that Zelensky is aiming to reorganize his cabinet before presenting a "Victory Plan" to U.S. President Joe Biden.

🇺🇦‼️🚨 TODAY MASS RESIGNATIONS: Ukraines government is decimated and cleaned out!

Submitted resignations:
- Vice Prime Minister Vereshchuk
- Ministr of Strategic Industry Kamyshin
- Ministr of Justice Maliuska
- Ministr of Ecology Strelets
- Gead of the State Property Fund Koval… pic.twitter.com/1UunCu5apT

— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) September 3, 2024

Growing political pressure

The sudden resignation of several ministers has fueled speculation that Zelensky’s administration is faltering. Opposition members in Ukraine’s parliament are now calling for Zelensky’s own resignation, further adding to the president’s mounting challenges. Despite this, Kamyshin confirmed that he would remain active in Ukraine’s defense sector, though in a different capacity.

Dmytro Kuleba’s possible exit

Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, a staunch ally of Zelensky throughout the war, has reportedly submitted his resignation. Kuleba, who has previously advocated for global support of Ukraine, including making a diplomatic visit to India, has sent his resignation letter to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament. This was confirmed by the chamber’s speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk.

Drone warfare chief dismissed

Apart from this, in another significant shake-up, Zelensky dismissed Roman Geledky, Ukraine’s Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of drone warfare. Reports suggest Geledky’s dismissal may be linked to his personal connections to Russia, as his wife holds a Russian passport, and his daughter participated in a sports event under the Russian flag.

Zelensky’s US visit and challenges ahead

As Zelensky prepares to travel to the US to present his plan to end the war, he faces the daunting task of reorganizing his government and filling key vacancies. Ukrainian military experts warn that the war is far from over, and Ukraine has suffered several setbacks in recent battles. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also weighed in, claiming that Zelensky’s government is in turmoil and suggesting that the Ukrainian leader is reluctant to end the war, fearing he won’t retain power.