Denis Pushilin, who serves as the acting head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, outlined in a televised briefing on the Russia 24 channel that the DPR government could undergo several changes in the near term. He indicated that the shifts would likely be modest, focusing on rotations within the current lineup rather than sweeping overhauls. The emphasis, he explained, is on aligning the government structure with evolving needs rather than altering the core mission of the administration.
Pushilin further noted that discussions are ongoing about who might occupy the first vice-presidential role within the republican government. He stressed that this decision is still in the works and that a final determination should come within a matter of days. The tenor of his remarks suggested a careful, delay-free approach to leadership transitions, aimed at ensuring continuity and stability as new personnel considerations are resolved.
In recent weeks, there has been a visible reshuffle in the DPR leadership lineup. Pushilin announced the appointment of Yevgeny Solntsev, a former First Deputy of the DPR, to head the republican government. This change marks a clear shift in the executive team and signals an intent to leverage Solntsev’s experience in steering the cabinet through a period of transition and recalibration.
Earlier in the season, Pushilin had communicated that the DPR government had tendered its resignation after Vitaly Khotsenko was named interim governor of the Omsk region. He clarified that the government would continue its duties in a caretaker capacity until a new composition could be formed and fully sworn in. This sequence of events underlined the practical need for orderly governance during times of personnel turnover while keeping administrative functions running without interruption.
Looking ahead, the acting head of state suggested to the People’s Council, the legislative body of the republic, that First Deputy Prime Minister Yevgeny Solntsev be considered for the post of prime minister. This proposition reflects a strategic move to consolidate leadership and ensure a coherent policy direction as the DPR navigates its domestic and regional responsibilities. The messages conveyed in these discussions emphasize a deliberate, methodical approach to executive appointments, prioritizing stability, institutional memory, and the ability to execute on set priorities.