Protests Erupt Across Ukraine After Zelenskyy Removes Defence Minister Fedorov

Kyiv: Public protests have erupted in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to remove Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov from office. Fedorov had served as defence minister for only six months.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's Parliament approved Serhii Koretskyi, the head of state energy company Naftogaz, as the country's new prime minister with 289 votes. The leadership change follows the resignation of former Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Kyiv, Odesa and Dnipro, raising slogans against Fedorov's removal. Reports suggest the decision stemmed from differences between Fedorov and Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi.

A technology expert, Fedorov played a key role in advancing Ukraine's drone warfare capabilities and introducing digital reforms in military procurement. His "Army of Drones" initiative and other technology-driven programmes significantly strengthened Ukraine's defence against Russian forces. His removal has therefore sparked criticism, with many arguing that replacing the defence minister while the war with Russia continues is ill-advised.

Zelenskyy said the cabinet reshuffle was aimed at making the government more dynamic and implementing new political strategies. He added that he respected public sentiment and was paying close attention to the ongoing protests.

Although Zelenskyy invited Fedorov to remain in the administration as an adviser, Fedorov declined the offer.