Born in Stalino (now Donetsk), Rybak graduated from the Department of Economy at Donetsk State University in 1973, eventually receiving a doctorate in economics.

[3][4] He served as chairman of the city council, executive committee and mayor of Donetsk from 1993 to 2002.

[6] Rybak was Vice Premier of Ukraine and Construction, Architecture and Housing and Utility minister (August 4, 2006 till March 21, 2007) and Vice Premier of Ukraine (March 21, 2007 till December 18, 2007) in the Second Yanukovych Government.

[1][4] He resigned on 22 February 2014[7] citing ill health and amidst the "2014 Ukrainian revolution".

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