In brief
Mykhailo Fedorov, the 35‑year‑old reformist credited with digitally‑enabled battlefield tactics, was dismissed shortly after President Volodymyr Zelensky appointed a new chief of defence. Despite being offered deputy prime minister and other posts, Fedorov adamantly demands his former portfolio. Protests across Kyiv and other cities threaten to continue until his return, underscoring deep divisions within the Ukrainian leadership. Zelensky’s cabinet reshuffle failed to quell the conflict, as supporters and critics highlight a split over modernization versus traditional command structures.
The 35‑year‑old former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has publicly refused a deputy prime minister role and insists he wants his position back after a brief dismissal last week.
Zelensky offered Fedorov several posts – from deputy prime minister to roles in military innovation – but the minister described the three “positions in the state that determine the course of the war” as president, defence minister and commander‑in‑chief.
Fedorov, who brought data‑driven tactics, drone‑initiative programs and a drive against corruption to the army, claimed the removal triggered protests that now demand his return. The protestors have taken to the streets in Kyiv and other major cities, with police reports of crowds marching to the presidential palace.
The dismissal followed President Zelensky’s decision in January to replace General Oleksandr Syrskyi, who clashed with Fedorov over reforms. Syrskyi’s replacement, General Mykhailo Drapatyi, was supposed to resolve the conflict, yet Fedorov’s comments indicate the battle of wills continues.
In a statement to journalists, Fedorov said his team had a “specific plan how to end the war” when he first took office. He highlighted efforts to protect Ukraine’s skies, stabilize the front and strike the Russian economy as key parts of that plan.
Zelensky and advisor Dmytro Lytvyn noted negotiations ongoing, but no final decision has been disclosed. The outcome of the unrest and the president’s willingness to release Fedorov remains uncertain.
While some analysts argue that drones and other successes stem from earlier strategy under Syrskyi, many Ukrainians still credit Fedorov’s innovation for recent gains and demand his reinstatement for the country to “win with strength”.
The situation illustrates the delicate balance of political power and military reform that Ukraine continues to navigate amid the ongoing conflict.
