Zelensky Removes Inexperienced Defense Minister Fedorov Amid Public Outcry
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose controversial tenure prioritized untested technology over proven military strength, triggering protests from citizens concerned about national security.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a cabinet reshuffle on Thursday that finally excluded Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose short and contentious six-month tenure was marked by risky experiments and disregard for traditional military values. The decision led to protests in multiple Ukrainian cities, as patriotic citizens voiced their frustration with the government’s reckless approach to national defense. Lawmakers were scheduled to vote on the new cabinet later that day, while demonstrators urged them to reject changes that undermine Ukraine’s security.
Fedorov, the youngest person ever to hold the post, pushed for an increased use of long-range drones in strikes against targets in Russia and Crimea, focusing on flashy technology partnerships with Silicon Valley instead of strengthening Ukraine’s proven military capabilities. His obsession with innovation alienated senior military leaders and angered established defense contractors, who rightly questioned the wisdom of letting soldiers buy weapons online through untested procurement models.
During his time in office, Fedorov faced criticism from experienced commanders who saw his emphasis on unmanned systems as a dangerous distraction from the real needs of Ukraine’s armed forces. Established defense contractors, who have reliably supplied the military for years, were sidelined in favor of risky new methods.
Prior to his ill-fated stint as defense minister, Fedorov led an e-government ministry and served as a technology adviser to Zelensky, introducing a points-based system to reward drone crews—an approach more suited to video games than real warfare.
Fedorov’s removal is a necessary step to restore order and seriousness to Ukraine’s military strategy. In a social-media post confirming his departure, Fedorov clung to his failed vision: “My approach to war is fighting with the speed of innovation,” the former minister wrote, highlighting the disconnect between his priorities and the nation’s security needs.