In brief
After being removed, Fedorov argued that only three state positions influence the war: president, defence minister and commander‑in‑chief. Despite President Zelensky offering deputy‑prime‑minister roles, Fedorov remains steadfast. Mass protests in Kyiv demand his reinstatement amid debates over military innovation and corruption reforms.
Ukraine’s ousted Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has refused a new position in President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government, insisting on his reinstatement.
Fedorov thanked the president but emphasised that only three state roles, aside from soldiers on the front, determine the war’s outcome: president, defence minister and commander‑in‑chief.
Zelensky had offered Fedorov several posts, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but the former minister declined.
Last week’s removal of Fedorov, who was praised for modernising Ukraine’s army, sparked widespread street protests. In response, Zelensky dismissed commander‑in‑chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whose conflict with Fedorov remained unsettled.
Some protest organisers say the sack of Syrskyi is insufficient and vow to continue demonstrations until Fedorov regains his ministerial role.
At 35, Fedorov implemented data‑driven reforms that boosted front‑line performance and introduced a successful Army of Drones initiative, alongside a rigorous anti‑corruption drive.
His rival, General Syrskyi, 60, guided the capital’s defence during the early stages of the Russian invasion but is now viewed by many Ukrainians as a conservative stalwart resistant to necessary changes.
In a statement to journalists on Thursday, Fedorov confirmed a "specific plan to end the war" was in place when he took office. The plan focused on sky protection, front‑line stability and targeted strikes against Russia’s economy.
He noted that throughout six months, the plan was consistently executed, enabling Ukraine to seize the initiative on the battlefield and create unprecedented opportunities to force a peace settlement based on strength.
Fedorov said he never sought a post or status, only an opportunity to influence the outcome and bring victory closer. His current replacement is Yevhenii Khmara, a former top official at Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU).
Zelensky stated during a meeting with Fedorov that the deputy‑prime‑minister role for military innovation was crucial for coordination across the defence ministry, the commander‑in‑chief, and the president.
However, Fedorov declined the offer, leaving the future of negotiations unclear. Presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn confirmed discussions continue but details remain undisclosed.
Experts note that Ukraine’s recent strategic successes, especially in long‑ and medium‑range drone strikes, largely stem from plans set in motion over a year ago while Syrskyi was commander‑in‑chief. Yet many Ukrainians believe that Fedorov’s unique perspective and leadership are indispensable for further innovation.
