Zelenskyy Fires Fedorov: Clash with Syrskyi and Failed Mobilization Reform.

today, 11:48 259

today, 11:48 259

Zelenskyy fired Fedorov over failure

Why Mykhailo Fedorov Was Dismissed

According to Espreso.tv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has outlined the reasons behind the removal of Mykhailo Fedorov as Defense Minister, pointing to tensions with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and broken promises on military mobilization reform. Fedorov was let go on July 15, 2023, after an audit of his tenure uncovered overspending totaling 300 billion hryvnias within the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Protest Rally in Support of Fedorov

A demonstration backing Mykhailo Fedorov took place in Ukraine on July 16, 2023, near the Presidential Office in Kyiv, just one day after his dismissal. Protesters voiced their opinions on the matter and showed support for the former minister.

Zelenskyy further remarked that

“in an ideal world, both should be replaced,”

signaling a need for leadership changes within the Defense Ministry.

Plans are now underway to appoint Ihor Klymenko, the current head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as the new Defense Minister. Commenting on the situation, Oleksandr Syrskyi stressed that

“Fedorov provides nothing for specific operations,”

which contributed to his firing. Meanwhile, a deputy from the “Servant of the People” faction noted that 'it was clear the president found this very difficult to say,' highlighting the tough nature of the decision.

The ouster of Mykhailo Fedorov underscores the serious challenges facing Ukraine’s Defense Ministry, especially amid ongoing war. The push for reforms and changes in leadership reflects the government’s drive to improve the efficiency of defense institutions—a critical need in the current geopolitical climate. The selection of a new defense minister may also signal efforts to find more effective solutions for national security as threats continue to escalate.