Ukraine’s ousted defense minister rejects Zelenskyy’s offer of a different government role

Ukraine’s former defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, has rejected an offer from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to take on a new role within the government. Fedorov, who held the post for six months, was dismissed last week amidst internal tensions with military leadership. His sudden removal caused public outcry and street protests across the country.

Fedorov became a prominent figure for his focus on military modernization and his efforts to address corruption in defense procurement. Supporters credit him with giving Ukraine a technological advantage on the battlefield. Following his dismissal, President Zelenskyy suggested that Fedorov transition to the role of deputy prime minister for military innovation.

Fedorov declined the offer, stating that he will not accept any position other than the one he held as defense minister. In his view, the defense ministry remains one of the three critical pillars for the country’s war strategy, alongside the presidency and the armed forces command. He expressed a desire to continue his work on institutional reforms, which he argues were prematurely halted by his departure.

Internal reports indicate that Fedorov’s exit followed a period of strain with the commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi. Critics of the administration have pointed to the move as a sign of conflict between the government and veteran military officials. The protest activity across Ukraine highlights the public divide over this shift in leadership while the country continues to deal with the ongoing invasion.