Broad support for Andrii Sybiha
Ukraine has been operating without a permanent foreign minister since a mid-July cabinet reshuffle, leaving wartime diplomacy in the hands of an acting official. Oleksandr Merezhko, who chairs the Verkhovna Rada's Committee on Foreign Policy and Interparliamentary Cooperation, expects parliament to back Andrii Sybiha for the post if President Volodymyr Zelensky formally submits his nomination. Sybiha, currently acting minister, was given that role on July 17, one day after the new government was approved with the foreign and defense portfolios still empty. No presidential submissions for those positions have yet been made.
Merezhko said he would personally vote for Sybiha if the nomination is formally made. He also noted that the candidate has not aroused irritation among many deputies, and his openness to dialogue with all factions could build additional support. The committee chair described relations between Sybiha and the committee as normal and professional.
"I have not heard any criticism directed against him or against his professional level," said Oleksandr Merezhko.
Lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak says the next plenary session of the Verkhovna Rada is scheduled for August 18. The foreign minister and defense minister candidates are to be considered separately after the president officially presents them.
Stability in the political environment
The lack of visible criticism from MPs suggests that Sybiha's candidacy reflects a measure of stability in Ukraine's political landscape. His willingness to talk with all factions could make the decision-making process more coherent. As the next Rada session approaches, resolving these senior appointments quickly is increasingly important for Ukrainian foreign policy amid changing international conditions.
As the political landscape in Ukraine evolves, the recent confirmation of Andrii Sybiha as Foreign Minister by a significant majority highlights the parliament's confidence in his capabilities. For more insights into the voting process and the implications of this decision for Ukraine's foreign policy, read about how the Ukrainian Parliament officially approved Sybiha's appointment here.