Protests in Ukraine's cities against Zelensky's removal of defence minister
BBC News 2026-07-16 11:31:11
Context: Protests have erupted in several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, against President Volodymyr Zelensky's surprise dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a popular and influential figure known for his efforts to modernize the ministry and improve Ukraine's military performance. The protests, attended by mostly young people, featured signs and chants criticizing Zelensky's decision, which has sparked significant opposition among commentators, the military, and civil society. Fedorov, 35, was appointed in January and had been instrumental in driving reforms and improving the military's performance.
Key Facts
- Mykhailo Fedorov was dismissed as Defence Minister by President Volodymyr Zelensky, sparking widespread protests and criticism from various quarters, including the military and civil society.
- Fedorov, 35, was appointed as Defence Minister in January and had been credited with energizing the ministry, leading a drive against corruption, and using data to analyze and improve performance on the front line.
- The protests, which took place in several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, featured mostly young people holding signs reading "Hands off Fedorov" and "Stop sabotaging victory!" and chanting "Shame!".
- Fedorov revealed that he had suggested to Zelensky that Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov should be replaced, but Zelensky refused, leading to Fedorov's dismissal.
- MPs were due to vote on the proposed replacement as defence minister, Ihor Klymenko, who currently heads the interior ministry, as part of Zelensky's reshuffle, which also included the appointment of state oil and gas boss Serhiy Koretsky as prime minister.