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Ukrainian Lawmakers Reject Shmyhal as Energy Minister Amid Crisis

1/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian lawmakers rejected Denys Shmyhal, a former prime minister and defense minister of Ukraine, as energy minister on January 13, 2026.
Shmyhal received 210 votes, short of the 226 needed for approval, with three opposition parties abstaining.
The vote represented a significant challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Critics, including Solomiia Bobrovska of the Holos party, warned the reshuffle could hinder the energy ministry amid ongoing Russian aggression.

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Story summary

Ukrainian lawmakers rejected Denys Shmyhal, a former prime minister and defense minister of Ukraine, as energy minister on January 13, 2026.
Shmyhal received 210 votes, short of the 226 needed for approval, with three opposition parties abstaining.
The vote represented a significant challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Critics, including Solomiia Bobrovska of the Holos party, warned the reshuffle could hinder the energy ministry amid ongoing Russian aggression.