Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov after only six months in the role, a sudden move that raises questions about the administration’s strategic direction amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The announcement came as Zelensky proposed Sergii Koretskyi, head of Ukraine’s largest oil and gas company Naftogaz, as the new prime minister, marking significant shifts in Kyiv’s leadership ahead of a challenging winter.
Fedorov confirmed his removal via social media, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve Ukraine. He is expected to be replaced by Ihor Klymenko, the current interior minister, although Zelensky’s office has not provided an official explanation for Fedorov’s dismissal or indicated whether he would assume another position within the government.
During his tenure, Fedorov was regarded as a key figure in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to counter Russian forces. Previously serving as digital transformation minister, he played an instrumental role in advancing Ukraine’s use of drone technology against invading troops and fostering relationships with U.S. technology firms, including Palantir, whose AI-driven data software supports Ukrainian military operations. Fedorov also influenced Elon Musk’s decision to restrict unauthorized access to Starlink satellite communications, a move that enhanced battlefield capabilities.
Despite these contributions, reports suggest Fedorov’s attempts to influence defense procurement contracts in favor of certain companies created friction with powerful political and military stakeholders, leading to internal opposition.
Zelensky’s nomination of Koretskyi, 48, to replace Yulia Svyrydenko as prime minister underscores the administration’s focus on strengthening Ukraine’s energy resilience. Koretskyi’s anticipated approval by parliament comes amid heightened concerns over renewed Russian air strikes targeting critical power infrastructure, particularly as Ukraine prepares for winter following the last season’s devastating cold and widespread outages. Last winter’s strikes left millions without electricity and heating during temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius, prompting unprecedented government evacuation advisories.
Svyrydenko’s dismissal last week, after less than one year as prime minister, resulted in a complete cabinet resignation. Zelensky indicated he had offered her a new role managing Ukraine’s relations with a “key partner,” widely interpreted as the United States, although details remain undisclosed. Svyrydenko’s appointment last year followed her involvement in negotiating a minerals investment agreement that played a significant role in restoring stronger ties with Washington after tensions during the Trump administration.
In related remarks, Zelensky expressed confidence that Ukraine would be capable of manufacturing its own missiles compatible with U.S.-supplied Patriot air defense systems by the end of the year, signaling ongoing efforts to enhance domestic military production amid persistent hostilities.