Ukraine's new prime minister announces full audit of public spending

Ukraine’s newly appointed Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced on Thursday that her government will initiate a comprehensive audit of public finances aimed at securing “real savings” and improving the efficiency of state spending.

In her first statement on X following her confirmation by parliament earlier in the day, Svyrydenko also emphasised the need to speed up large-scale privatisation efforts as part of broader economic reforms.

“Our government will launch a full audit of public finances to ensure transparency and real savings,” she wrote, underscoring fiscal discipline as a key objective.

Svyrydenko, who previously served as First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister, takes the helm during a critical phase of Ukraine’s wartime recovery and restructuring. She replaces Denys Shmyhal, who is expected to take over as Defence Minister.

Outlining her immediate priorities, Svyrydenko said her administration would focus on ensuring stable and sufficient supplies for the Ukrainian military, while also working to expand domestic arms production to reduce reliance on imports.

Her appointment comes as Ukraine continues to face significant economic and security challenges amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. With foreign aid expected to decline in the coming year, the government is under pressure to streamline expenditures and find alternative sources of revenue.

Observers say Svyrydenko’s leadership will be crucial in balancing urgent defence needs with long-term structural reforms needed to stabilise Ukraine’s economy and maintain international support.

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