Ukrainian President Zelensky Sets New Government Priorities: Updates from the Ministers

October 29, 2025

Kyiv, Ukraine – President Volodymyr Zelensky presided over a thorough review of governmental performance, engaging with Prime Minister and cabinet members to evaluate achievements over the past hundred days and lay out priorities for the coming three months. The President stressed the importance of tangible outcomes in sectors vital to Ukraine’s resilience.

Strategic Priorities Outlined by President Zelensky

The President emphasized the need for swift action and demonstrable progress in critical areas, including bolstering national defense capabilities, securing consistent energy supplies, providing essential support to the ukrainian population, strengthening international partnerships, and intensifying resistance to ongoing Russian aggression. Government officials will now be required to submit regular reports detailing advancements across these key portfolios.

Securing Ukraine’s energy future

president Zelensky demanded guaranteed funding for natural gas imports, specifying a requirement for 100% financial assurance. He also called for the swift and full implementation of agreements with international partners concerning electricity generation, aiming to diversify Ukraine’s energy sources and reduce reliance on perhaps unstable supply chains. According to the Energy Information Management, Ukraine relies heavily on nuclear power, but diversifying its energy mix is crucial for long-term stability. EIA – Ukraine

Infrastructure and Reconstruction Efforts

The government is actively involved in a series of infrastructure projects, with a notable focus on restoring crucial water systems in the cities of Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk. These efforts are essential for the well-being of citizens and the re-establishment of normal life in areas previously impacted by conflict. This aligns with the World Bank’s Ukraine recovery and Reconstruction Assessment, which estimates the cost of recovery to be over $400 billion.World Bank – Ukraine

Supporting Frontline Communities

Programs designed to support communities located in active conflict zones are reportedly yielding positive results. These programs prioritize the preservation of local governance, the provision of critical services, and the reinforcement of defensive operations. The initiatives aim to ensure the viability and security of these regions, playing a vital role in maintaining civilian resilience.

Strengthening International Sanctions Against Russia

President Zelensky instructed Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to expedite efforts toward the synchronization of international sanctions imposed on Russia. He underscored the importance of a unified and robust sanctions regime to increase pressure on the Russian government and limit its capacity to finance the conflict.

Boosting Domestic Defense Production

The President tasked government agencies with accelerating the domestic production of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and implementing stricter controls over the export of Ukrainian-produced weaponry. this move is intended to strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and ensure responsible arms management.

Addressing Critical Healthcare Needs

Minister of Health Viktor Liashko was directed to prioritize solutions to guarantee the consistent availability of essential medicines for the ukrainian population. This includes addressing supply chain challenges, streamlining procurement processes, and exploring opportunities for domestic pharmaceutical production.

Investing in Culture, Education, and Veterans

The government announced plans to allocate additional resources to the cultural sector and to increase salaries for teachers and lecturers.Furthermore, increased attention will be directed towards addressing the needs of veterans and enhancing the accessibility of digital services for all citizens.

Utilizing Frozen Russian Assets

Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko was instructed to explore mechanisms for utilizing funds held in frozen Russian assets for social programs, offering a potential avenue for funding reconstruction and supporting vulnerable populations.

Key Area	Presidential Directive
Energy security	100% financing guarantee for gas imports; implement electricity agreements.
Infrastructure	Restore water supplies to Mykolaiv & Dnipropetrovsk.
Sanctions	Accelerate synchronization of international sanctions.
Defense	Accelerate drone production & control weapons exports.

Understanding the Broader Context

Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and defend itself require sustained international support. The country’s economic stability is closely linked to the global energy market and the effectiveness of international sanctions. According to the International Monetary Fund, Ukraine’s economy is projected to grow in 2024, but remains vulnerable to external shocks. IMF – Ukraine Innovative solutions, like leveraging frozen assets, as suggested by President Zelensky, are crucial for long-term recovery.

Did You Know? Ukraine has one of the largest agricultural sectors in Europe, earning it the nickname “the breadbasket of Europe.”

Pro Tip: Stay informed about the latest developments in Ukraine by following reputable news sources and international organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ukraine’s Recovery

• What is the primary focus of Zelensky’s recent directives? President Zelensky is prioritizing defense, energy security, and economic stabilization.
• What is being done to restore infrastructure in Ukraine? The government is actively working to restore essential services like water supplies in key cities.
• How are frozen Russian assets being considered? Ukraine is exploring using these assets to fund social programs and reconstruction.
• What’s the importance of increasing drone production? Boosting domestic drone production strengthens Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
• Why is energy security so critical for Ukraine? Securing stable energy supplies is vital for Ukraine’s economic stability and resilience.

What are your thoughts on the Ukrainian government’s plans for reconstruction? How can international communities best support Ukraine during this critical time?

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How might the 70% increase in the defense budget impact other sectors of the Ukrainian economy?

Strengthening National Defense & Security – A Top Priority

President Zelensky recently outlined a revised set of government priorities, heavily influenced by the ongoing conflict and the need for long-term national resilience. The core focus remains bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, but with a sharpened emphasis on domestic production and technological advancement.

* Increased Defense Budget Allocation: Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov announced a planned 70% increase in the defense budget for 2026, prioritizing drone technology, electronic warfare systems, and ammunition production. This shift aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers and foster a self-sufficient defense industry.

* Drone Warfare Initiative: A dedicated “Drone Army” initiative is being scaled up, with the goal of producing over a million First-Person View (FPV) drones domestically within the next year. This includes funding for research and advancement, as well as training programs for drone operators and maintenance personnel.

* Cybersecurity Enhancement: Minister of Digital Transformation mykhailo Fedorov detailed plans to considerably strengthen Ukraine’s cybersecurity infrastructure. This includes increased investment in threat detection systems, personnel training, and international collaboration to counter Russian cyberattacks.Ukraine has been a frequent target of cyber warfare, making this a critical area of focus.

economic Recovery & EU Integration – Laying the Foundation for Future growth

Beyond immediate security concerns, Zelensky’s government is prioritizing economic recovery and accelerating the path towards European Union membership.These efforts are intertwined, as economic stability is seen as crucial for sustaining the war effort and attracting foreign investment.

* EU Accession Roadmap: Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-atlantic Integration, Olha Stefanishyna, presented a detailed roadmap for fulfilling the EU’s membership criteria. Key areas of focus include judicial reform, anti-corruption measures, and alignment with EU regulations. Negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming months.

* Investment Attraction & Business Support: Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko announced a series of incentives to attract foreign investment, particularly in critical sectors like agriculture, energy, and technology.These include tax breaks, streamlined regulatory processes, and guarantees against nationalization.

* Agricultural Sector Resilience: Despite the challenges posed by the war, Ukraine remains a major global agricultural producer. The Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food is implementing programs to support farmers, rebuild damaged infrastructure, and secure export routes. Focus is on diversifying export markets to reduce dependence on traditional routes.

* Energy Sector Reconstruction: Following repeated attacks on energy infrastructure, Minister of Energy Herman halushchenko outlined a thorough plan for reconstruction and diversification of energy sources. This includes investment in renewable energy, nuclear power, and energy efficiency measures.

Social Welfare & Humanitarian Aid – Supporting the Ukrainian People

The human cost of the war remains immense, and the Zelensky government is committed to providing support to those affected by the conflict.

* IDP Support & Housing: Minister of Social Policy Oksana Zholnovych detailed ongoing efforts to provide housing,financial assistance,and social services to internally displaced persons (IDPs).The government is exploring innovative housing solutions, including modular construction and repurposing of existing buildings.

* Healthcare System Strengthening: Minister of Health Viktor Liashko announced plans to modernize Ukraine’s healthcare system, with a focus on trauma care, mental health services, and rehabilitation for war veterans. International aid is playing a crucial role in supporting these efforts.

* Education Continuity: Despite the disruption caused by the war, the Ministry of Education and Science is working to ensure continuity of education for all Ukrainian children. This includes online learning platforms, remote teaching programs, and support for schools in conflict zones.

The Role of International Partnerships

Ukraine’s success hinges on continued international support. Zelensky’s government is actively engaging with allies to secure financial aid, military assistance, and political backing.

* Financial Aid Negotiations: Ongoing negotiations with the United States, the european Union, and other international partners are focused on securing additional financial aid to cover budget deficits and fund reconstruction efforts.

* Military Assistance Requests: Ukraine continues to request advanced weaponry, ammunition, and training from its allies to strengthen its defense capabilities. Specific requests include air defense systems, long-range artillery, and armored vehicles.

* Sanctions Enforcement: The government is urging its allies to maintain and strengthen sanctions against Russia to pressure Moscow to end the war.

Benefits of These New Priorities

These revised priorities offer several key benefits for Ukraine:

* enhanced National Security: A stronger defense industry and improved cybersecurity will make Ukraine more resilient to future threats.

* Economic Growth & Stability: EU integration and increased foreign investment will stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

* Improved Quality of Life: investments in social welfare and healthcare will improve the quality of life for Ukrainian citizens.

* Strengthened International Standing: Continued international support will enhance Ukraine’s standing on the global stage.

Real-World Example: The “United24” Fundraising Platform

The “United24” fundraising platform, launched by President Zelensky, exemplifies