Poroshenko urges Rada to pass shelter law, notes absence of nominations for foreign, defense ministers

Ukrainian politician Petro Poroshenko urged the Rada, or Parliament, to pass a shelter law during a recent speech at the Verkhovna Rada. Poroshenko pointed out that the country has been without a designated defense and foreign affairs minister for a month, criticizing lawmakers for extended vacations. He questioned the wisdom of proceeding with Rada meetings while the nation faced wartime conditions without these critical positions filled.

Poroshenko emphasized the importance of the Rada's role in safeguarding citizens, businesses, and the economy, as well as equipping the armed forces. He reminded the assembly that his party had submitted a bill on shelters in 2024, but it had been on hold for two years, awaiting consideration. Poroshenko called on Verkhovna Rada chairman to place the bill on the agenda, stressing the necessity of shelters for protecting residents in Kyiv and other cities.

The Verkhovna Rada resumed its first plenary session on August 18, following a break starting July 16. Tuesday's agenda did not include appointments for the defense and foreign affairs minister positions, as per the president's selection criteria. Demonstrators gathered near the Verkhovna Rada building to protest the lack of dialogue and reform in the defense sector, with around 20 people calling for Mykhailo Fedorov's return as defense minister and advocating for transparent decision-making within the Defense Ministry and the army.