President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a series of significant internal government decisions as Ukraine prepares for upcoming meetings with the United States aimed at securing steps toward what he called a “just peace.” In his evening address, Zelensky emphasized the need for internal unity and focus while the country faces ongoing diplomatic and military challenges.
Zelensky said that in order to maintain “internal strength,” which he described as the foundation of Ukraine’s external unity, officials must avoid distractions and act solely in the interest of national defense. He outlined several major decisions affecting the President’s Office, the Cabinet of Ministers, law enforcement oversight, and the Armed Forces.
The most notable announcement was the resignation of Andriy Yermak, head of the President’s Office. Zelensky confirmed that Yermak had submitted his resignation letter and thanked him for consistently representing a “patriotic” Ukrainian position in negotiations. He added that consultations on a new head of the Office would take place on Friday.
Zelensky said that upcoming international talks will include Ukraine’s Chief of the General Staff, representatives of the Foreign Ministry, the National Security and Defense Council, and intelligence services.
“When we face such an external challenge as war, we must be strong internally,” he said.
Turning to the Cabinet, Zelensky expressed expectations that Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, together with members of parliament, will ensure progress on three key fronts: passing the 2026 state budget, maintaining defense capabilities and social payments, and securing economic stability. He also requested nominations for new ministers of energy and justice and called for a thorough evaluation of current officials to determine whether they are prepared for the challenges of winter and ongoing war.
Zelensky also said he had instructed the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) to analyze the situation in law enforcement agencies and in the regions, citing “too much negative information” from local authorities. He said he expects prompt reports and will make decisions based on the findings.
Addressing the Armed Forces, Zelensky praised Ukrainian soldiers as “heroes” whose efforts on the battlefield strengthen Ukraine’s diplomatic position. He noted that some long-standing internal military issues require resolution and said Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, the General Staff, and Ground Forces Commander Pavlo Palisa were already working on them. A meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief is planned for next week, with a focus on establishing a fair and efficient distribution of personnel among brigades.
“Principles for how to do this already exist, and every combat brigade has been calling for it,” Zelensky said, adding that decisions will follow soon.
