KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov as part of a government reshuffle, ending the tenure of a reform-minded official widely credited with accelerating Ukraine's drone warfare capabilities and military technology programs during the country's war with Russia.
Fedorov confirmed his departure in a public statement, calling it "a great honour" to serve as defence minister. His dismissal came after days of speculation over cabinet changes and followed reported disagreements between the Defence Ministry and Ukraine's senior military leadership over the direction of wartime reforms and command priorities.
Zelensky has defended the decision, saying unity between the civilian leadership and the armed forces was essential during the war. According to Ukrainian and international media reports, tensions had grown between Fedorov and Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi over military management and reform initiatives.
During his six months as defence minister, Fedorov oversaw an expansion of Ukraine's domestic drone production and procurement efforts, promoted new battlefield technologies and digital systems, and pursued changes aimed at increasing transparency in defence procurement. Supporters credited him with helping accelerate the use of unmanned systems that have become central to Ukraine's military strategy.
In a statement outlining his accomplishments, Fedorov said his team had increased drone acquisitions, expanded long-range strike capabilities and introduced new technology programs. Those claims reflected his account of the ministry's work and have been widely reported, though some operational details could not be independently verified because of wartime security restrictions.
The dismissal prompted protests in Kyiv and other cities, with demonstrators expressing concern that the removal of a senior official associated with military innovation could disrupt ongoing reforms. Some lawmakers, veterans and civil society representatives also questioned the timing of the decision as Ukraine continues to face Russian military pressure.
Ukraine's parliament is expected to complete the formal transition to new defence leadership as part of the broader cabinet reshuffle announced by Zelensky. Officials have said military operations and support for Ukraine's expanding defence technology and drone programs will continue under the incoming leadership.
