Ukraine's political crisis deepens as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defends his decision to sack popular defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, sparking protests and international concern. The move has exposed fractures between the defence ministry and top military leadership, with Zelenskyy acknowledging a challenging dialogue between Fedorov and Commander in Chief Col Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi. At a press conference in Kyiv alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Zelenskyy stated, 'I would very much like to see unity. The sides have not found it.'
Why Was the Defence Minister Sacked?
The dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov, widely seen as a reformist and moderniser, has shocked many. Zelenskyy confirmed that relations between the ministry and the army leadership had broken down. He appointed acting head of Ukraine's security service, Yevhenii Khmara, as acting defence minister, pending parliamentary approval. The decision to back Syrskyi has outraged civil society and dismayed foreign partners.
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Protests Erupt in Kyiv
More than 1,000 protesters gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv, carrying placards reading 'For what?' and 'Is your head screwed on?'. Chants of 'Syrskyi out' echoed through the streets. This marks only the second large-scale anti-government protest since Vladimir Putin's 2022 invasion, following a similar backlash last year over plans to close anti-corruption agencies.
| Key Event | Date | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Fedorov dismissed | This week | Protests and political crisis |
| Zelenskyy backs Syrskyi | Same week | Outrage from civil society |
| Starmer's farewell visit | This week | Overshadowed by crisis |
International Reaction
The growing domestic political crisis overshadowed Starmer's farewell visit to Kyiv, where the two leaders laid wreaths at the Wall of Remembrance. Zelenskyy awarded Starmer the Order of Freedom, Ukraine's highest foreign honour. Starmer appeared close to tears during the ceremony. The sacking has dismayed Ukraine's foreign partners, who see Fedorov as a key reform figure.
Key Takeaways
- Zelenskyy defends sacking defence minister Fedorov despite protests.
- Relations broke down between the ministry and top army leadership.
- Yevhenii Khmara appointed as acting defence minister.
- Over 1,000 protesters gather in Kyiv demanding Syrskyi's removal.
- International partners express dismay over the political crisis.
FAQ
Why was Mykhailo Fedorov sacked as defence minister?
Zelenskyy cited a breakdown in relations between Fedorov and top army leadership, including Commander in Chief Syrskyi, as the reason for the dismissal.
Who is the new acting defence minister of Ukraine?
Yevhenii Khmara, the acting head of Ukraine's security service, has been appointed as acting defence minister pending parliamentary approval.
How have Ukrainians reacted to the sacking?
Over 1,000 protesters gathered in Kyiv, chanting 'Syrskyi out' and carrying signs criticizing Zelenskyy's decision, marking rare anti-government demonstrations.
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