Rare protests have broken out across Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The reshuffle, the second this year, has provoked public anger due to Fedorov's exclusion. The 35-year-old tech expert had sought to modernize Ukraine's outmanned military to better confront Russian forces.

Hundreds of protesters demanded Fedorov's reinstatement, coinciding with the resignation of a senior air war commander in Kyiv. Politicians suggest that outgoing Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko may replace Fedorov, a change occurring at a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict.

Fedorov declined Zelenskyy's offer to serve as an adviser, speaking to reporters in Kyiv. Meanwhile, General Syrskyi, who has led since early 2024, faces criticism for a rigid command style blamed by some service members for high troop losses. Syrskyi appeared to mock Fedorov's earlier press conference, stating, "And now in this city, briefings can be held, visions can be developed, and decisions can be made."

The new government under energy executive Sergii Koretskyi was approved by parliamentary vote on Thursday. Koretskyi stated on X that the administration's priority is to "fully equip" the army with drones, expand Ukraine's defense sector, and prepare for another winter of Russian strikes on the power grid.

The dispute between Fedorov and Kyiv's top general has spilled into the public sphere, with some critics accusing Zelenskyy of dividing the country rather than focusing on defeating Russia. Protesters argue that the president should not take sides during wartime, while others acknowledge his leadership in difficult moments.

Sources