Ukraine’s Defence Minister Fedorov Resigns After Clash with Commander-in-Chief Syrsky
President Volodymyr Zelensky cites inability to collaborate as the reason for the change, while Fedorov accuses General Syrsky of obstructing modernisation efforts.
Ukraine’s Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has been forced to resign following a sweeping government reshuffle announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky, marking a significant escalation in the rift between civil and military leadership. Fedorov publicly accused Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky of obstructing his reforms and issuing an ultimatum that forced his departure. President Zelensky cited the inability of the two men to collaborate as the primary reason for the change, though Fedorov remains in an advisory capacity.
The resignation highlights a strategic divide: Fedorov advocated for drone warfare, digitalisation, and aggressive recruitment reforms, while Syrsky emphasised traditional manpower and operational command. Fedorov’s exit has triggered street protests in support of the minister, amid broader concerns over Ukraine’s mobilisation efforts, which have seen over 100 violent clashes between draft officers and the public in 2026.
Fedorov held a press conference in Kyiv, using a slide-deck to accuse Syrsky of systematically obstructing reforms and prioritising splitting the country over defeating Russia asymmetrically. Fedorov admitted he urged Zelensky to replace Syrsky and General Staff Chief Andrii Hnatov, but accused Syrsky of issuing an ultimatum: Fedorov must go, or Syrsky would.
Fedorov announced recruitment reforms in June, including pay rises, fixed-term contracts, and the recruitment of foreign fighters. However, a ruling party lawmaker told Politico that Fedorov’s reforms were “more style than substance” and amounted to “just slides.”
Ukraine recorded more than 100 violent clashes between draft officers and the public in 2026, including an incident in Lviv where draft officers were attacked. Fedorov revealed in January that over 200,000 people were absent without leave and 2 million men were evading the draft. Russia is expected to announce a new wave of mass mobilisation in autumn 2026 following State Duma elections.
