Ukraine's military leadership is experiencing a significant split after the removal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who had been appointed six months ago to modernize the armed forces. On Thursday, July 16th, 2026, Fedorov publicly criticized the army's top commander, prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to call for unity within the military ranks.

The ousting of Fedorov, a popular figure credited with digitizing and revitalizing an army fatigued by four years of conflict with Russia, sparked large protests across several Ukrainian cities. The unrest highlights growing tensions within Ukraine's military leadership during a critical period.

FRANCE 24's Gulliver Cragg reports from Europe on the unfolding situation.

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