Zelensky faces protests over ousting of Ukraine’s defense minister despite military gains

Ukraine’s Defense Minister Ousted Amid Military Successes and Internal Conflict

Zelensky faces protests over ousting of Ukraine – Ukraine has experienced an unusual political upheaval following the sudden removal of Mykhaylo Fedorov from his position as defense minister. The decision has triggered rare public demonstrations in Kyiv and revealed an unprecedented division within the military leadership regarding how the war against Russia should be conducted. Fedorov, who served for only six months in the role, announced late Wednesday that he had been dismissed from his post due to disagreements with Oleksandr Syrskyi, the country’s armed forces chief.

A Shocking Departure with Wide-Ranging Implications

President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the situation on Thursday, acknowledging the public protests and expressing confidence that Fedorov would continue serving in some capacity within his administration. The president stated he was “confident that [Fedorov] will remain on my team, and we will discuss a little later what that will look like.”

“Decisions are made based on loyalty, not data,” Fedorov said at a news conference on Thursday. “There is sabotage of changes. There are constant lies, including about me.”

The dismissal has created considerable concern among Ukraine’s international partners. One senior European official stationed in Kyiv described the move to CNN as “a bit of a shocker,” suggesting the decision could significantly impact Ukraine’s relationships with crucial allies. These nations view Fedorov as a dedicated advocate for anti-corruption initiatives within both the military and broader government structures.

Fedorov’s Innovative Approach to Defense

Before his appointment as defense minister, Fedorov held the position of minister for digital transformation. At 35 years old, he earned popularity among Ukrainian troops for implementing improvements to soldier compensation and frontline rotation schedules. His tenure has been marked by an innovative approach to technology integration and personnel recruitment.

Fedorov championed Ukrainian start-up companies in developing diverse drone systems that have proven instrumental in slowing Russian advances on the battlefield. These unmanned systems have also inflicted substantial damage on Russian refineries and pipeline infrastructure located hundreds of miles within Russian territory. Additionally, he oversaw the development of mid-range drones that have helped isolate Crimea, the peninsula Moscow illegally annexed in 2014.

“You can’t solve mobilization issue unless you there are real changes in the military. What are we offering? Lies, chaos…” he said.

Public Protests and Military Tensions

Fedorov’s departure prompted hundreds of demonstrators, predominantly young people, to gather in Kyiv on Thursday. Several individuals interviewed by CNN expressed confusion over the decision, with one observer noting that Fedorov was “the person who introduced the technology that allowed drones to do most of the fighting instead of people.” This represents a rare instance of wartime protest in the Ukrainian capital, with the previous such demonstration occurring a year earlier when thousands rallied to demand the independence of the anti-corruption bureau.

Behind the scenes, Fedorov had encountered resistance from certain segments of Ukraine’s military hierarchy. On Thursday, he launched a public critique of Syrskyi, marking the most visible split within Ukraine’s defense establishment since the conflict began. Fedorov questioned the military chief’s approach, stating that the notion “Syrskyi can hold the frontline is a fake.” He further accused Syrskyi of prioritizing internal divisions over finding solutions to defeat Russia.

Looking Ahead: New Leadership and Uncertain Future

Zelensky announced on Thursday evening that he had selected Yevhenii Khmara, Ukraine’s acting Security Service chief, to serve as acting defense minister. The president urged Ukrainian lawmakers to endorse Khmara’s nomination for the permanent position. Fedorov’s removal occurred as Russian missiles struck Kyiv early Thursday, with loud explosions echoing throughout the Ukrainian capital.

“I would very much like to see unity” between the army and Defense Ministry, Zelensky said Thursday – but they had only communicated through him. “And the problem lies not only with the parties, but with me as well…I respect the parties; I know their strengths, I know their weaknesses.”

Mykhailo Drapatiy, one of the senior commanders Fedorov specifically mentioned, praised the former defense minister’s contributions. Drapatiy stated that “over the past six months, the military has gained a partner in the Ministry of Defense – one that not only met our needs but also demanded new approaches, faster decision-making, and support for those willing to take responsibility for those decisions.”

If Fedorov is permanently replaced, his successor would become Ukraine’s fifth defense minister since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. The outcome of this leadership transition could significantly influence Ukraine’s military strategy and its relationships with Western allies who have provided substantial support throughout the conflict.