Why the Ukrainian government is considering dismissing Liashko and Lisovyi: what’s known as of July 2025
July 2025 has become a period of public nervousness for Ukraine’s government institutions. Amid large-scale reforms, the aftermath of the destruction of Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital, and unresolved issues in the education sector, rumors are growing about changes at the ministerial level. The main focus is on Viktor Liashko (Minister of Health) and Oksen Lisovyi (Minister of Education and Science). What is actually known, who might take these ministerial posts, what scandals are influencing these decisions, and what should we expect next? Here’s a detailed breakdown based on verified sources.
Why Are These Dismissals Being Discussed?
Signals about possible reshuffles in the Cabinet of Ministers have come from several directions:
- Some MPs from the “Servant of the People” faction have told journalists that dismissing both the Ministers of Health and Education is being considered;
- The main trigger for Viktor Liashko’s possible dismissal was the situation around the reconstruction financing for Okhmatdyt National Children’s Hospital after a Russian strike. Issues with tenders and fundraising for reconstruction generated public resonance and criticism from some MPs and NGOs;
- In education, dissatisfaction with some reforms, a lack of a coherent strategy, and a sharp need for “fresh leadership” have also become factors.
Who Could Replace the Ministers?
Ministry of Education and Science:
- The most likely candidate to replace Oksen Lisovyi is his current deputy, Andrii Vitrenko.
- His name has most often been mentioned in conversations among MPs and experts (this has been confirmed by the “Servant of the People” faction and MP Inna Sovsun).
- There is also a scenario under which Lisovyi could be removed without a permanent replacement being immediately appointed, and an acting minister would take over.
Ministry of Health:
- As of mid-July, no specific candidate to replace Liashko is being discussed in government circles.
- NGOs (“Patients of Ukraine,” “100% Life”) have publicly expressed support for the current MOH team, emphasizing their effectiveness despite criticism.
Weaknesses of Potential Candidates
Andrii Vitrenko:
- In April 2025, the NGO “Dissergate” published research suspecting academic misconduct in Vitrenko’s work, particularly in his PhD thesis. The report is currently unavailable, but the accusations remain in the public domain.
- Vitrenko’s political background includes experience in Serhii Shkarlet’s team and leadership of the “Servant of the People” faction in the Kyiv City Council. Media sources have noted that his political career is linked to support from people close to the Office of the President.
Scandals Influencing Personnel Decisions
1. Okhmatdyt and Minister Liashko:
- After the missile strike on July 8, 2024, the Ministry of Health and a charitable foundation announced a fundraiser for the hospital’s reconstruction. Later, a public conflict broke out over the allocation of funds, transparency of tenders, and criticism of the conditions for rebuilding.
- Although no direct accusations of inefficiency have been proven, the situation increased pressure on the ministry’s leadership and became a pretext for discussions about a possible replacement.
2. Education:
- Lisovyi has faced criticism regarding the pace of education reforms and the impact of political decisions on university autonomy.
- The question of whether Lisovyi will remain has become rhetorical: in political circles, the issue is less about his personal assessment and more about the desire of the President and some MPs to give the sector “new impetus.”
What Lawmakers and Experts Are Saying
- The “Servant of the People” faction openly admits that dismissals are possible, but no final decision has been made about either minister.
- MP Inna Sovsun has emphasized: “Vitrenko is just one of the candidates. It’s possible that the Ministry of Education and Science will be led by an acting minister for a while.”
- No official statements from the Office of the President or the Prime Minister have been released. The situation remains at the level of consultations and discussions.
Why Now?
- The renewal of the Cabinet is part of a broader process of “resetting” executive power. President Zelenskyy and his team are actively searching for new management approaches amid wartime economics, reforms in education and medicine, and the public demand for transparency and effectiveness.
As of the time of writing, no official decision has been made regarding the dismissal of the Ministers of Health and Education that is a fact. But the rumors and discussions have a real basis, confirmed by multiple independent sources, and the situation could change in the coming weeks.
The key issue is not about specific individuals, but the demand for renewal, efficiency, and transparency in government actions, which is becoming increasingly relevant during wartime.
The choice of new leaders for the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Health is not just a bureaucratic rotation, but a signal of how the government responds to the challenges of the time and the public’s demand for meaningful change.
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