Zelenskyy Dismisses Ukraine's Popular Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov
Zelenskyy Dismisses Ukraine's Popular Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov
Ukraine's popular defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, credited with massive reforms and a strategic shift in defense, has been dismissed by President Zelenskyy amidst a government reshuffle. What does this mean for Ukrai
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a surprising move, dismissing Ukraine’s popular defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, after just six months in his post. The decision comes despite pleas from foreign partners and civil society for Fedorov to retain his position, indicating a significant government reshuffle within Kyiv.
Fedorov, 35, announced his departure via Telegram, stating it had been a “great honour” to serve the Ukrainian people. He was widely lauded for his transformative impact on the defence ministry, particularly for his efforts in reducing corruption and modernizing military operations. His brief tenure coincided with a notable improvement in Ukraine’s battlefield position, marked by successful long-range drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, which have reportedly caused nationwide fuel shortages in Russia.
Among his significant achievements, Fedorov highlighted disabling Starlink for Russian troops, a crucial move in disrupting enemy communications. He also championed the procurement of advanced drones, instrumental in destroying “enemy logistics” and isolating occupied Crimea. Fedorov further claimed to have “radically improved” the procurement system, saving the state budget “billions of dollars” and reducing costs by 30% for ballistic missile development, positioning Ukraine to “enter a new league.” The ministry successfully tested a ballistic missile on the day of his departure.
While the exact reasons for his dismissal remain under wraps, one report suggested conflicts with generals and military contractors over the role of innovative robot and drone weapons in warfare. This high-profile sacking is also expected to cast a shadow over British prime minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Kyiv, where he arrived to underscore the UK’s support for Ukraine during his premiership. It is currently unclear if Fedorov will be offered another cabinet position. The reshuffle also saw Ukraine’s parliament accept the resignation of Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenk, indicating broader changes within the government leadership.
