MOSCOW: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed over a dozen new ambassadors on Monday as part of a significant political reshuffling aimed at bolstering relations with the United States and other Western nations while further isolating Russia.

Among those named were envoys to NATO member countries such as Belgium, Canada, Estonia, and Spain, as well as key global partners including Japan, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.

This strategic move comes in the wake of a broader government overhaul initiated by Zelensky last week, which saw Yulia Svyrydenko, previously the economy minister, promoted to head the Ukrainian cabinet as prime minister.

The reshuffle also included the appointment of Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna to serve as Ukraine’s new envoy to the United States, underscoring Kyiv's efforts to improve its diplomatic ties with Washington.

In a speech addressed to the diplomatic corps, Zelensky emphasized the importance of his country's ambassadors in supporting initiatives that inflict economic and political pressure on Russia for its ongoing military aggression.

Noting that despite the change in U.S. administration, Ukraine remains committed to countering Russian hostilities through diplomatic means.

Zelensky’s statements highlight the continued strategic significance of maintaining robust international support as Ukraine navigates the complexities of post-Soviet geopolitics and seeks to deter further Russian incursions.