In brief
Zelenskiy's abrupt decision to fire Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has ignited widespread protests in Ukrainian cities, with crowds holding banners like “Hands off Fedorov” and chanting “Shame!”. The move has upset both the military and civil society, sparking criticism from soldiers, veterans and supporters who credit Fedorov’s tech‑driven reforms and successful drone and cyber campaigns. Analysts point to tensions with Commander‑in‑Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and perceived delays in mobilisation as possible motives for the dismissal. The situation remains fluid as MPs will vote later to appoint interior minister Ihor Klymenko as the new defence chief.
The abrupt firing of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday has triggered a wave of demonstrations in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.
Fedorov, who joined the government in January, was praised for revitalising the ministry, cutting corruption and harnessing data to improve frontline performance. His tech‑led initiatives—such as the volunteer “IT Army of Ukraine,” a drone fundraising campaign, and a system that rewards units for hitting targets—cemented his popularity among soldiers and civilians alike.
Protesters have taken to the streets with signs reading “Hands off Fedorov”, “Stop sabotaging victory!” and slogans like “Shame!”. A Ukrainian soldier told the BBC that the dismissal was “the worst mistake” of Zelenskiy’s presidency, and many in the military opposed the move.
The decision is also contentious within the defence establishment, where Fedorov’s reform agenda clashed with more conventional thinking at the top, notably with Commander‑in‑Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Some analysts suggest the choice stems from friction over the pace of mobilisation and changes in procurement strategy.
MPs will vote later this week on appointing Ihor Klymenko—currently the interior minister—as the new defence chief. Until then, Kyiv continues to echo the sentiment that Fedorov’s removal threatens Ukraine’s strategic advantage against Russian aggression.
