Ukrainians Protest Zelensky's Dismissal of Popular Defence Minister Fedorov

Protesters took to the streets in multiple Ukrainian cities on Thursday after President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov without offering any public explanation, sparking outrage among civil society organisations and members of the military who regarded him as an indispensable figure in Ukraine's war effort.

A Dismissal With No Explanation

Zelensky signed the decree removing Fedorov from his post, but neither the president nor his office provided a reason for the decision. The sudden nature of the dismissal shocked many within Ukraine's defence community and among the broader public, who had come to view Fedorov as a symbol of Ukraine's successful use of technology and innovation in the war against Russia.

Fedorov, who had served as minister since the early days of the full-scale invasion in 2022, was widely credited with spearheading Ukraine's drone warfare programme, managing international tech donations and coordination, and building the country's digital defence infrastructure. Under his leadership, Ukraine became one of the world's most digitally advanced fighting forces.

Public Anger and Civil Society Reaction

Demonstrations broke out in Kyiv and other cities, with protesters demanding Zelensky explain the decision and calling for Fedorov's reinstatement. Civil society groups, veterans organisations and Ukrainian tech industry figures were among those who expressed public condemnation of the move.

Several prominent military figures and volunteers posted statements of support for Fedorov online, arguing that removing him at a critical point in the war was deeply counterproductive. The dismissal drew criticism from commentators who noted that Ukraine's drone capabilities had become one of its most effective asymmetric advantages against Russia's larger conventional military.

Political Significance

The episode highlights growing tensions within Ukraine's wartime leadership as the conflict enters a prolonged phase. Zelensky has faced increasing scrutiny over presidential decisions and personnel changes, particularly as international support for Ukraine has become more politically contested in Western capitals.

It remained unclear late Thursday who would succeed Fedorov as defence minister, or whether the president planned to announce a new appointment soon. The government's silence on the reasons for the dismissal continued to fuel speculation and public unrest.