Russia-Ukraine war live: Zelensky initiates major cabinet reshuffle after 51 people died in “barbaric” rocket attack on Poltava

The Ukrainian government is currently undergoing profound upheaval; at least six ministers have resigned and a presidential adviser has been dismissed.

The changes come as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares for a critical phase in the war against Russian forces. The resigned ministers include Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, the ministers of justice, environment and rehabilitation, and the head of Ukraine's State Property Fund.

About a third of the cabinet posts are currently vacant.

Mr Zelenskyy announced the cabinet reshuffle last week, saying changes were necessary. He is expected to present his “plan for victory” to Joe Biden during his upcoming visit to the US.

Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris will announce £36 million in aid for Ukraine, of which £30 million will be allocated to partner organisations through the development agency Irish Aid and £6 million for previously announced European Investment Bank projects.

The Irish government said the £30 million package would provide essential humanitarian assistance, support reconstruction and rehabilitation, and contribute to Ukraine's longer-term goals, including peace, stability and political aspirations.

Mr Harris said: “Two and a half years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine continues to face enormous challenges.

“We have seen the remarkable resilience that the Ukrainian people have shown in the face of these challenges.

“The same determination and resolve will be needed to rebuild the country with the support of international partners, including Ireland.

“We have always provided full and unwavering support to the people of Ukraine and this additional funding is further proof of that commitment.”

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv as Ireland prepares to announce millions in new aid to Ukraine.

Wednesday's visit comes a day after at least 50 people were killed and 200 injured when two Russian ballistic missiles hit a military training facility and hospital in Poltava, 320 kilometers southeast of Kyiv.

During a bilateral meeting in the Ukrainian capital, Mr Harris and Mr Zelensky will sign a joint agreement on assistance and cooperation.

The Irish President will visit areas bombed by Russia and also meet Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

Mr Harris said: “I want to see first-hand and with my own eyes the impact of the war on the European continent.”

Russia has launched a missile attack on the capital Kiev and a drone attack on the western city of Lviv, not far from the border with NATO member Poland, Ukrainian military officials said on Wednesday. Air defense units are busy repelling the attacks.

Reuters witnesses heard several explosions on the outskirts of Kiev that sounded like active air defense systems.

The Ukrainian Air Force announced via the messaging app Telegram that an air raid alert was in effect for the entire Ukraine.

According to the Polish Armed Forces' Operational Command, Polish aircraft were activated early Wednesday for the third time in eight days to ensure the security of Polish airspace after Russia launched attacks on Ukraine.

“This is another very busy night for the entire air defense system in Poland due to the observed activities of the long-range aviation of the Russian Federation, which is conducting attacks,” the command said on X.