KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has triggered protests in Kyiv and other cities, with demonstrators calling for the decision to be reversed as the government moves to reorganize its wartime leadership.
Fedorov confirmed he had been removed from the post after serving as defense minister for about six months. Zelenskyy has proposed appointing security official Yevhenii Khmara as acting defense minister, with parliamentary approval required for a permanent appointment.
Zelenskyy said the decision followed a breakdown in cooperation between the defense ministry and Ukraine’s military leadership. He cited the need to resolve disagreements between Fedorov and military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, saying the situation required a choice between competing approaches.
Protests were reported in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, with demonstrators expressing support for Fedorov, who had been credited by supporters with advancing military technology and drone-related initiatives. Local media reported crowds gathered near government buildings in Kyiv, while authorities did not immediately announce any major security incidents linked to the demonstrations.
The reshuffle has exposed divisions within Ukraine’s wartime leadership as the country continues its war against Russia. Officials have not provided further details on Fedorov’s future role or the full structure of the planned defense leadership changes.
The situation remains developing, with further government decisions and public reactions expected as Ukraine’s leadership transition proceeds.
