Kyiv Protests Erupt After Zelenskiy Removes Reformist Defense Chief

Protesters gathered in the capital to demand Fedorov’s reinstatement, framing the move as a setback for the country’s modernization efforts. Critics of the decision argue that the dismissal signals a victory for General Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom activists accuse of stalling critical military reforms and fostering internal divisions. Fedorov had built a reputation as a reformer intent on leveraging technology to bolster Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities against Russian forces.

While the administration pivots to new leadership—including the appointment of energy executive Sergii Koretskyi—the political fallout remains palpable. Zelenskiy has yet to clarify a future role for the outgoing minister, leaving a vacuum in the defense department at a time when the Kremlin is closely monitoring the stability of Ukraine’s command structure.