Protests have broken out in Ukrainian cities after President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that has sparked backlash among military personnel and civilians. Demonstrators gathered in Kyiv on Thursday, holding signs and chanting in opposition to the decision.
Why Fedorov's dismissal triggered unrest
Fedorov, appointed in January, was widely credited with modernizing the defence ministry, combating corruption, and pushing for data-driven reforms on the front line. His removal follows confirmed tensions with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom Fedorov had urged Zelensky to replace alongside Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov.
Zelensky acknowledged "systemic" conflicts between the General Staff and the defence ministry but stated that mediation had so far kept the two working together. Fedorov, in his own press conference, claimed his initiatives were repeatedly blocked and accused Syrskyi of prioritizing internal division over asymmetric warfare against Russia.
Reactions from military and public
Syrskyi responded with a brief Telegram message, reaffirming his focus on the war and wishing Fedorov success. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers and protesters expressed strong support for Fedorov. One soldier told the BBC the dismissal was "the worst mistake Zelensky has made," while a protester in Kyiv, Maria Lavrynets, said Fedorov's reforms had boosted morale and results.
Zelensky stated he understood public concerns but noted no final decision had been made on Fedorov's replacement. Parliament was set to vote on Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko as a potential successor, though Zelensky clarified other candidates were still under consideration.
Broader government reshuffle
The dismissal is part of a wider reshuffle, with parliament approving Serhiy Koretsky as prime minister after Yuliia Svyrydenko's resignation. Fedorov, who declined an offer to stay as an adviser, emphasized his confidence in Zelensky's ability to resolve the situation but maintained he acted on principle.
His tenure saw notable achievements, including disrupting Russian operations via Starlink satellite restrictions and leading drone strikes on Crimea. Former advisers and drone unit commanders have since resigned in protest, citing setbacks to Ukraine's defence capabilities.
