Mykhailo Fedorov, the former defense minister of Ukraine, has publicly stated that his removal from office was a direct consequence of his efforts to dismantle entrenched corruption within the ministry.
Fedorov alleges that he was dismissed specifically for attempting to eliminate non-transparent practices that have long plagued the defense sector, a move he claims triggered resistance from established networks.
The former minister revealed that he learned of his dismissal only one hour before the official announcement, suggesting a coordinated effort to sideline his reform agenda.
This assertion adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing political turmoil surrounding Ukraine's defense apparatus, which has already been marred by significant corruption scandals.
Fedorov's comments come amid a broader crisis of confidence in Ukraine's military leadership.
In recent weeks, he had also called for the removal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky and Chief of the General Staff Andriy Hnatov, arguing that their leadership was ineffective.