Ousted defence minister refuses reassignment, demands reinstatement

Mykhailo Fedorov has declined an alternative post offered by President Volodymyr Zelensky and said he wants his job back, citing the centrality of the president, defence minister and commander-in-chief in determining the course of the war.

Fedorov thanked the president for offers including deputy prime minister for military innovation but rejected them, saying he never sought status and only wanted the ability to influence outcomes and bring Ukraine closer to victory.

His removal last week prompted mass protests. Demonstrators demanded Fedorov’s return after Zelensky dismissed him; protests continued even after the sacking of commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom some protesters saw as at odds with Fedorov.

Fedorov, 35, has been credited with data-driven reforms, the Army of Drones initiative and anti-corruption efforts that supporters say improved frontline performance. He stated his team had a specific plan to end the war focused on air defence, stabilising the front and striking Russia’s economy, and said Ukraine had begun to seize the initiative.

Zelensky has already appointed Yevhenii Khmara as defence minister and later named Mykhailo Drapatyi commander-in-chief. The president said he offered Fedorov the deputy prime minister role to coordinate military innovation with defence leadership; presidential adviser Dmytro Lytvyn said talks were ongoing but declined to give details.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

Fedorov’s removal triggered mass protests and led to further changes in senior military leadership, including the replacement of the commander-in-chief. Supporters attribute recent operational improvements to Fedorov’s reforms, while some observers note earlier planning under previous commanders contributed to recent strike capabilities. Negotiations over Fedorov’s role reportedly continue according to a presidential adviser.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Mykhailo Fedorov refused a proposed alternative post and demanded reinstatement as defence minister.
• Fedorov’s dismissal sparked mass protests and preceded the sacking of the commander-in-chief.
• President Zelensky appointed Yevhenii Khmara as defence minister and offered Fedorov a deputy prime minister role, which he declined; talks over his future are said to continue.