Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Mykhailo Fedorov, the Defense Minister he dismissed two days ago, will continue to be part of his presidential team. According to Zelensky, Fedorov’s new responsibilities will be revealed at a later stage.
The statement came after lawmakers approved most appointments to the new government cabinet, while the positions of Defense Minister and Foreign Minister remained unconfirmed.
“During wartime, the president should not be the person who makes decisions in such a situation. I would like to see greater unity. The sides failed to achieve that, and the problem does not lie only with the political parties, but also with me,” Zelensky said.
The Ukrainian president said he accepts responsibility for the political developments and has no intention of avoiding it.
“I am not removing responsibility from myself. Fedorov will remain part of my team, but his new role will be announced later,” he added.
The government reshuffle in Ukraine comes at a time when the country continues its war against Russian aggression, while facing significant challenges in defense, the economy, and the coordination of international assistance.
Zelensky removed Mykhailo Fedorov after a meeting with military leaders. The decision triggered reactions among political and military circles, raising discussions over the management and oversight of Ukraine’s defense efforts amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. The move was also followed by street protests in several Ukrainian cities.
The 35-year-old Fedorov, known for his expertise in technology, had led initiatives to digitize state administration and promoted innovation in the use of drones as a crucial weapon in modern warfare.
