Fedorov Rejects New Government Role After Dismissal

Dismissed Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said on Thursday that he would not accept any government post other than a return to his previous position, rejecting an offer from President Volodymyr Zelensky to become deputy prime minister for defense innovation.

Fedorov said only the offices of president, commander-in-chief of the armed forces and defense minister have the authority to tackle procurement corruption, implement reforms and “actually shape the course of the war”.

His dismissal has triggered protests across Ukraine, with thousands of people in Kyiv and other cities demanding his reinstatement. Organizers have given Zelensky until Friday to respond, while talks between the president and Fedorov continue.

The political crisis comes at a critical stage of the war, as the new commander-in-chief of the armed forces, Mykhailo Drapatyi, faces a shortage of frontline personnel and ongoing Russian attacks.

(Reuters, Max)