Ukraine Weighs Ousting Defense Minister Fedorov After 6 Months as Cabinet Reshuffle Deepens
Updated
Updated · Kyiv Independent · Jul 14
Ukraine Weighs Ousting Defense Minister Fedorov After 6 Months as Cabinet Reshuffle Deepens
3 articles · Updated · Kyiv Independent · Jul 14
Summary
Six months into the job, Mykhailo Fedorov is at risk of losing Ukraine’s defense minister post as Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko’s resignation opens a broader cabinet reshuffle.
50% of Ukrainians trusted Fedorov in a June KIIS poll versus 21% who did not, and lawmakers, public figures and some Kyiv residents warned another rapid ministerial change would disrupt military priorities.
Opposition lawmakers and analyst Volodymyr Fesenko said the push reflects tensions with parliament and President Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as infighting in the defense industry—especially the drone sector.
Fedorov’s allies also linked the pressure to anti-corruption fights, saying he faced Telegram information attacks after challenging alleged schemes inside the Defense Ministry.
If removed, Fedorov would become the second straight defense minister to leave after about six months, raising fresh questions over continuity in wartime defense management.
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Overview
Ukraine is undergoing a major government reshuffle led by President Zelenskyy, highlighted by the resignation of Svyrydenko and the appointment of Koretskyi to the Cabinet. The fate of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is uncertain, creating intrigue and concern about possible destabilization in the defense ministry. Experts warn that replacing Fedorov at this critical time could harm military efficiency and erode public trust in the government’s defense leadership. The situation underscores the urgent need for stability and strong leadership as Ukraine navigates ongoing conflict and seeks to maintain progress in defense reforms.