Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has explained the rationale behind the dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov as defense minister, attributing the decision to the intensifying demands of the ongoing conflict.
In a briefing to the ruling Servant of the People parliamentary faction, Zelensky described the personnel change as a "painful" but necessary step to align the defense apparatus with current operational realities.
The move has triggered swift and sharp criticism from within the military establishment.
Soldiers, veterans, and civil society organizations have voiced immediate opposition to the removal of Fedorov, who had served in the role since January of this year.
The backlash underscores the sensitivity of leadership changes during active hostilities and highlights growing friction between Kyiv’s political leadership and the armed forces.
Fedorov, a 35-year-old technocrat previously known for his six-year tenure as minister of digital transformation, leaves the defense portfolio amid a period of heightened strategic pressure.