A new turn in her career: from the Cabinet of Ministers to the energy sector
On August 9, 2026, Ukraine's political agenda received an unexpected development. Former Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko, whose resignation as head of the government became one of the key events of the year, found herself in the spotlight again. This time, the discussion is not about a return to the Cabinet of Ministers, but about a possible appointment as the head of the state company "Naftogaz of Ukraine". Information about such a scenario came from Verkhovna Rada deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak, who stated that the issue is under discussion, but a final decision has not yet been made.
The situation looks particularly symbolic in the context of personnel changes that occurred earlier. It was Serhiy Koretsky, the former head of Naftogaz, who was appointed Prime Minister instead of Sviridenko, which became the reason for her resignation. Now, after Koretsky left his post, the vacancy in the energy sector is open again, and Sviridenko's name is sounding as one of the main contenders.
Financial challenge: why Naftogaz needs a strong leader
According to sources familiar with the plans to strengthen the company's leadership, Sviridenko's appointment is driven not only by political considerations but also by harsh economic reality. Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal previously warned that Naftogaz would need about 400 million euros in the near future for gas purchases. These funds are necessary to ensure the stability of the country's energy supply in the context of the ongoing crisis and the need to find new partners.
It is expected that the former Prime Minister will be able to use her international authority and negotiation experience to attract investments or loans from Western partners. In a situation where traditional sources of financing are exhausted, a figure of such stature could become a key factor in negotiations with international financial institutions and foreign governments.
Refusal of the embassy and awarding: the difficult path of the former Prime Minister
After resigning as Prime Minister at the initiative of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sviridenko was offered the position of Ambassador of Ukraine to the USA. However, she refused this offer, which caused a wide resonance in society and the media. Despite the refusal, Zelenskyy still recognized her merits, awarding her an order for her work as Prime Minister. Denys Shmyhal was also awarded alongside her, highlighting the importance of their contribution to managing the country during a difficult period.
This refusal of the diplomatic mission in the USA may have become a turning point that opened new horizons for her career. Now, instead of working in Washington, she may return to Ukraine to head one of the most important state companies, whose activities directly affect the country's security and economy.
Contradictory data: different versions of events
Despite the fact that information about the possible appointment of Sviridenko to Naftogaz has received wide coverage, there are certain contradictions in the details. Some sources indicate that the decision has not yet been made and is still under discussion, while others report that the process is close to completion. In addition, there are opinions that the appointment may be related not only to financial tasks but also to political considerations aimed at strengthening the positions of certain groups in the government.
It is also worth noting that some experts doubt the expediency of such a step, pointing out that experience in managing the government does not always guarantee success in managing a large corporation. However, others believe that such experience could be useful in conditions where strategic planning and international negotiations are required.
Future prospects: what's next?
Regardless of whether Sviridenko is appointed head of Naftogaz, this situation demonstrates that the political career of the former Prime Minister is not over. Her name continues to feature in important personnel decisions, which speaks to her significance in Ukrainian politics. If she does head the company, it will be an important step in her professional path and could have serious consequences for Ukraine's energy sector.
At the same time, if the decision is made in favor of another candidate, this will also be an important signal for the public and political circles. In any case, the situation surrounding Naftogaz and possible personnel changes remains one of the most discussed topics in Ukrainian politics at the moment.
