In brief
Ukraine's recently dismissed defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has publicly refused offers of alternative roles and insists on regaining his former post. The move comes amid ongoing protests that accuse President Volodymyr Zelensky of sidelining a key military reformer. Zelensky’s offer of deputy prime minister for military innovation was rejected by Fedorov, who cited strategic elements of the war plan he originally set. The conflict highlights differing views on leadership and strategy in the ongoing Ukrainian defence effort.
The former Ukrainian defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, has publicly rejected any alternative role in President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government and insists on reinstatement to his previous post.
Key points
- Fedorov cites three pivotal positions—president, defence minister and commander‑in‑chief—that must steer the war.
- The president had offered Fedorov several posts, including deputy prime minister for military innovation.
- He remains critical of Zelensky’s decision, insisting that only the defence minister role can drive the reforms that led to recent battlefield successes.
The decision to remove Fedorov in January triggered mass street protests across Ukraine, with demonstrators demanding his return. In response, Zelensky later dismissed commander‑in‑chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom many viewed as holding the opposition in the army, and elevated young officer Mykhailo Drapatyi as his replacement.
Fedorov, 35, is credited with modernising the Ukrainian army through data-driven tactics and a pervasive drone warfare programme. He also spearheaded a crackdown on corruption within the defence ministry. Fedorov remains on the sidelines, despite his previous appointment not being the centerpiece of any ideological conflict.
According to a statement released Thursday, Fedorov argues that his team had a “specific plan” to end the war: protect the skies, stabilise the front, and strike against Russia’s economy. He claimed six months of successful implementation had given Ukraine a battlefield initiative that must not be lost.
Zelensky emphasised that if Fedorov were to return as deputy prime minister for military innovation, forces would be linked more efficiently, but Fedorov declined the offer.
The president’s adviser, Dmytro Lytvyn, said discussions were still ongoing, refraining from disclosing details at this stage.
