Several thousand demonstrated in the Ukrainian capital Kiev and other cities against Fedorov’s dismissal for the third day in a row.Image: keystone
Against the backdrop of ongoing protests against the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj held talks with military officials.
July 19, 2026, 02:30July 19, 2026, 02:30
“Of course I hear what people say,” the head of state assured in a video speech. He also spoke “for a long time” with Fedorov and also with army chief Olexander Syrskyj. “Decisions regarding the army are being worked out,” Zelensky promised, without giving details.
Demonstrations against Syrskyj and for Fedorov continue
At the same time, several thousand people, especially young people, demonstrated against Fedorov’s dismissal for the third day in a row in the Ukrainian capital Kiev and other cities. The demonstrators demanded his reinstatement. The main demand was now to replace army chief Syrskyj. A conflict between Syrskyj and Fedorov is seen as the background for Zelenskyj’s change at the top of the Defense Ministry.
Fedorov’s post was taken over on Friday by intelligence officer Yevhenij Khmara. However, Zelensky still has to submit Khmara’s candidacy to parliament and have it confirmed by MPs.
Ukraine has been resisting a Russian invasion for more than four years. Syrskyj has been commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces since February 2024. The 60-year-old professional military man, who comes from Russia, made particular contributions to the defense of Kiev and the successful counteroffensive in the Kharkiv area in 2022.
Fedorov has headed the Defense Ministry since January. Previously, the 35-year-old was at the head of the Digitization Ministry, which was created in 2019. (sda/dpa)