Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday named Denys Shmyhal as a candidate to lead the country's Energy Ministry, citing the need for stable leadership as Ukraine works to restore its damaged energy infrastructure.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy announced the nomination through a statement posted on the US social media platform X, where he expressed gratitude to Shmyhal for his 'systematic work' in his previous role as defense minister. Shmyhal took on that position in July of the previous year and has been noted for reinforcing processes aimed at safeguarding the nation.

Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of Shmyhal's systematic approach, which he believes is essential for Ukraine's energy sector at this time. The country is focusing on recovery efforts after numerous attacks on its energy facilities. The President emphasized that stable growth in the energy sector is vital to fulfill national energy demands.

Zelenskyy also mentioned that he had discussions with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and expressed optimism that the parliament would approve the plan. This plan includes appointing Shmyhal as first deputy prime minister and minister of energy.

This development follows Zelenskyy's announcement of 'substantial' internal changes aimed at enhancing the country's resilience. These changes include a proposal to appoint Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov as the next defense minister.

The position of energy minister has been unfilled since November, when Svitlana Hrynchuk stepped down amid a $100 million corruption investigation in the energy sector. Hrynchuk had taken on the role in July during Ukraine's most significant Cabinet reshuffle since the Russian invasion in February 2022.