Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Sunday that he would replace his defence minister, marking the most significant shake-up in Ukraine’s defence establishment since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
In his video address to the nation, Zelenskiy stated that Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov would be dismissed and that he would propose Rustem Umerov, head of the country’s main privatisation fund, as a replacement to parliament later in the week.
Reznikov, who has served as defence minister since November 2021, has played a crucial role in securing Western military aid for the war effort against Russia. However, his ministry has faced allegations of corruption, which Reznikov has dismissed as smears.
Zelenskiy’s decision comes amidst his efforts to crack down on corruption in Ukraine. As the country seeks to join the European Union and the war continues, public sensitivity towards corruption has increased.
“I’ve decided to replace the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. Oleksii Reznikov has been through more than 550 days of full-scale war,” Zelenskiy explained, highlighting the need for new approaches and interaction with the military and society as a whole.
Zelenskiy expressed confidence in parliament’s approval of Umerov’s appointment, stating that Umerov does not require any additional introduction. The president has to submit Umerov’s candidacy for parliamentary review.
Rustem Umerov, a 41-year-old ex-lawmaker and Crimean Tatar, has been heading Ukraine’s State Property Fund since September 2022. He has been praised for his efforts in combating corruption scandals within the fund.
During the war, Reznikov’s defence ministry has advocated for increased military support from the West. This has led to the supply of advanced military equipment, including German-made main battle tanks and HIMARS multiple-launch rockets. Ukraine is also expected to receive F-16 fighter jets from the United States soon.
Western military aid has been crucial in Ukraine’s pushback against Russian forces and subsequent counteroffensives. The Ukrainian troops are currently engaged in intense battles to recapture territory in the southeast and east.
Reznikov, known for his good rapport with allied defence ministers and military officials, has been suggested as a possible new ambassador to London by a member of parliament. However, his departure now appears imminent following months of media pressure and corruption allegations surrounding his ministry.
Last month, Reznikov’s ministry was accused of corruption in the procurement of winter coats for the army. Reznikov has denied any wrongdoing and claimed to be the target of a smear campaign.
(Reporting by Tom Balmforth and Anna Pruchnicka; Editing by Diane Craft and Rosalba O’Brien)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
