Rare wartime protests broke out in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities on Thursday after President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that has sparked criticism from military personnel, civil society groups and political commentators.
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv and in cities including Lviv, Odesa and Kharkiv, carrying placards demanding Fedorov’s reinstatement and questioning the government’s decision. Protesters described the minister as a key architect of Ukraine’s military modernisation, particularly in expanding drone warfare capabilities and improving defence procurement.
Fedorov, who was appointed defence minister earlier this year after previously serving as minister for digital transformation, was widely credited with introducing reforms aimed at increasing transparency, reducing corruption and accelerating the production of drones and other military technologies. His dismissal comes amid reports of disagreements with Ukraine’s military leadership over the direction of defence reforms.
The political fallout has extended beyond the protests. Deputy Air Force Commander Pavlo Yelizarov resigned following the announcement, while several military advisers and reform advocates voiced concern that the leadership change could disrupt Ukraine’s defence efforts at a critical stage of the war with Russia.
President Zelensky defended the broader government reshuffle, saying it was intended to improve the effectiveness of the wartime administration and strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities. Parliament is expected to approve a new cabinet as the country continues to face sustained Russian missile and drone attacks.
The demonstrations are among the most significant public protests seen in Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, reflecting growing public concern over changes to the country’s wartime leadership.
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