Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to replace Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has sparked widespread protests and criticism from the public and political figures alike.
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❓ WHAT HAPPENED: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a move that has sparked protests and criticism from servicemen, civil society, and members of parliament. Zelensky has proposed Major-General Yevhenii Khmara as the acting defense minister, citing his experience.
🎯 IMPACT: The decision has led to public outcry, with protesters chanting slogans such as “Hands off Fedorov!” and “Stop sabotaging victory!” taking to the streets in Kiev and other cities. Many Ukrainians view Fedorov as a key figure in modernizing the military and combating corruption. The move has also prompted resignations within the military, including Pavlo Yelizarov, a deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Force. Zelensky has signaled he is sensitive to the pressure, saying of the protests, “People wanted to come out, and that’s right. I understand, I hear, and I even react to what society is saying.”
📰 DETAIL: Fedorov, who was appointed in January, has been credited with energizing the defense ministry and implementing high-tech warfare strategies, including the improved use of drones and cyber warfare operations. His dismissal is reportedly linked to tensions with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, with Fedorov suggesting that both Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov should be replaced.
💬 KEY QUOTE: “This is the worst mistake Zelensky has made during his entire presidency,” said Oleksandr, a Ukrainian soldier, in comments to the British media, expressing the sentiment of many who oppose the decision. “I don’t know anyone who supports the decision to replace him. Not within the army, not in society,” he added.
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