KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov as part of a sweeping wartime government reshuffle on Wednesday, a move that triggered criticism from some military figures and civil society groups ahead of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Kyiv.
Fedorov confirmed his dismissal in a public statement, saying it had been "a great honour to serve the Ukrainian people" during his six months as defence minister. His departure came amid broader changes to the government that also saw Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko leave office, with parliament approving former Naftogaz chief Sergii Koretskyi as Ukraine's new prime minister on Thursday.
Zelenskyy has described the cabinet overhaul as part of an effort to renew the government's work as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia's full-scale invasion and prepares for another winter expected to bring renewed pressure on its energy infrastructure.
The president did not publicly provide a detailed explanation for replacing Fedorov, who had been credited by Ukrainian officials and Western partners with advancing defence procurement reforms, expanding domestic drone production and accelerating military technology initiatives. Media reports citing unnamed sources suggested disagreements between Fedorov and senior military leadership may have contributed to the decision, but those accounts have not been independently confirmed.
The dismissal prompted rare public protests in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities, where demonstrators expressed support for Fedorov and voiced concern over leadership changes during wartime. Some military officers and activists also criticised the decision, while Deputy Air Force Commander Pavlo Yelizarov announced his resignation, saying the move would weaken Ukraine's defence capabilities.
Despite the criticism, Zelenskyy's administration has continued with the reshuffle, arguing that renewed leadership is needed to strengthen defence management, maintain economic stability and advance Ukraine's bid to join the European Union.
Starmer arrived in Kyiv on Thursday for what Downing Street described as his final visit to Ukraine as British prime minister. According to the UK government, he was due to hold talks with Zelenskyy on continued military and financial support for Ukraine and to reaffirm Britain's long-term commitment despite the impending change in UK leadership.
The developments come as Ukraine continues to face sustained Russian attacks while seeking to preserve international backing for its defence effort and broader reconstruction plans.
