Ukraine's recently dismissed defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, has publicly stated he will not accept President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's offer to serve in a different government capacity. Fedorov, who was removed from his post last week after six months, had been instrumental in modernizing the armed forces and integrating technology into Ukraine's war effort against Russia.
Fedorov expressed his decision in a statement, emphasizing that leading the Defense Ministry was one of only three roles he considered pivotal in shaping the war's trajectory, alongside the presidency and the chief of the armed forces. Zelenskyy had proposed Fedorov take on the role of deputy prime minister for military innovation.
In his statement, Fedorov indicated a desire to complete reforms he had initiated at the Defense Ministry, which were reportedly cut short due to a strained relationship with the commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi. Fedorov stated that the defense minister position was unique in its authority to combat procurement corruption, transform the army, plan asymmetric operations, and address a culture of dishonesty within the system.
He joined the ministry in January with a strategy aimed at ending the war through improved air defenses, reinforcing the front line, and weakening Russia's economy via long-range strikes. Fedorov asserted that these collective efforts had created a crucial opportunity to negotiate peace from a position of strength, an opportunity he believes should not be lost.
Fedorov's dismissal sparked protests across Ukraine and drew attention from officials in Moscow. He is considered a youthful and popular public figure for his work in modernizing the military and implementing technological advancements.