Zelenskyy Under Pressure to Reinstate Defense Minister

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy faces public protests demanding the reinstatement of defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov amid military leadership changes.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing increasing pressure to restore his ousted defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, as nationwide protests continue. Campaigners have pledged to maintain their demonstrations until Fedorov is reinstated in his former role.

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy responded to public demands by dismissing Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces, and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi as the new military chief. This reshuffle is described as a significant move amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Despite Zelenskyy’s attempts at appeasing the public by offering Fedorov a different role in the government, the former minister has reportedly declined this new position of deputy prime minister for technological development, affirming his desire to return as defense minister. Fedorov believes reinstatement is essential for executing his vision to modernize and reform Ukraine’s military.

With the defense minister’s position filled by special forces commander Yevhenii Khmara, the public is expected to rally outside Zelenskyy’s office in Kyiv’s Ivana Franka Square on Friday evening. Prominent veteran Dmytro Koziatynsky announced this gathering, indicating that Ukraine’s political crisis may extend into a second week.

Koziatynsky highlighted the need for the government to heed the protesters’ demands, stating on social media that the return of Mykhailo Fedorov is a crucial aspect of the ongoing demonstrations.

A senior source within the military revealed the heavy dilemma facing Zelenskyy. They noted that reversing his decision to dismiss Fedorov could be perceived as a substantial success for the latter, thereby potentially undermining Zelenskyy’s authority. However, failing to reinstate Fedorov could prolong the protests.

In recent months, Ukraine’s unmanned systems have successfully targeted various locations in Russia, including military bases and oil refineries, as part of a broader strategy to weaken Russia’s capacity to sustain its military operations. Following the protests, reports emerged that Ukrainian drones targeted warehouses belonging to the Russian retailer Wildberries, causing extensive damage in the Krasnodar region.

In a meeting with top military commanders, Zelenskyy assured his new military chief, Drapatyi, that his focus would be on enhancing offensive operations on multiple fronts. Drapatyi conveyed his responsibility to develop new technology and expand the military’s capabilities.

The appointment of Drapatyi has garnered approval from various sectors, including Ukraine’s former president, Petro Poroshenko, who praised his recognition among the military as a capable leader.

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, a senior military figure expressed cautious optimism regarding Drapatyi’s leadership amid speculations about increased Russian troop mobilizations as the country heads toward its elections in September. This growing crisis stems from a generational clash in Ukraine’s military leadership, where Fedorov’s modern approach contrasts markedly with the traditional military ethos of Syrskyi.

In defense of his record, Syrskyi emphasized his contributions to the military, particularly during the early phases of Russia’s invasion, underscoring that he leaves behind an army prepared for offensive operations.

As the situation unfolds, the Kremlin has responded, asserting that Drapatyi’s appointment will not change the realities on the battlefield, reinforcing Moscow’s intent to continue its aggressive military campaign, which has now persisted for nearly five years.