Zelensky says energy firm chief 'best' choice for PM

KYIV, July 16 ------ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the CEO of state energy firm Naftogaz was "best prepared" to become Ukraine's next prime minister following a government reshuffle last week. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko resigned as part of a government reshuffle ordered by Zelensky.

Ukrainian media had named Sergiy Koretsky, the CEO of state energy firm Naftogaz as the frontrunner to replace her. Russia has struck Ukraine's energy grid each winter since invading in 2022, cutting power and heating to millions during freezing temperatures. "If we enter winter, then we must prepare. We have been preparing for a long time already, but the priorities are clear: preparation for winter," Zelensky said at a press conference alongside visiting EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. "After all the consultations, Sergiy Koretsky is probably the best prepared person for the position of prime minister of Ukraine," he added.

Zelensky met Koretsky at the weekend -- after he had announced plans to remove Svyrydenko -- and hailed his "effective leadership" in an "extremely complex sector."

Source: manilatimes.net