Ukrainian Protesters Clash With Zelensky Over Defense Minister Fedorov's Dismissal

Sun Sep 06 2026 16:37:58 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Protests erupt in Kyiv and other cities after President Zelensky abruptly fired Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, sparking unrest among young activists, soldiers and civil society.

President Volodymyr Zelensky's sudden dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has sparked widespread protests in Ukraine's cities, especially in Kyiv. The move came without explanation, leaving soldiers, technologists and activists angry at what they see as a reckless decision. Fedorov, a tech-savvy commander who championed anti-corruption reforms and a data‑driven war effort, was replaced by Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, a decision that critics say undermines modernisation efforts. Amid chants of "Hands off Fedorov" and "Shame!", strong opposition has emerged from soldiers and civil society who feel his reforms were vital for Ukraine's war capabilities.

Ukrainian Protesters Clash With Zelensky Over Defense Minister Fedorov's Dismissal

President Volodymyr Zelensky fired Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov without a public explanation, sparking angry protests across Ukrainian cities.

In Kyiv, young demonstrators chanted "Hands off Fedorov" and "Shame!", holding signs calling for the minister’s return.

Dozens of soldiers, civil‑society leaders and tech‑experts voiced their disappointment in the Kremlin‑style decision, which many see as undermining Ukraine’s high‑tech warfare push.

Fedorov, a former digital‑transformation minister, had quickly reshaped the defence ministry in 2022, setting up an “IT Army of Ukraine” and a fundraising campaign for drone units.

He also persuaded SpaceX’s Elon Musk to block Starlink use by Russian forces, a move that disrupted home‑front operations.

The dismissal was replaced by Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, a former police chief, in a move critics say risks rolling back Ukraine’s rapid reforms.

"This is the worst mistake Zelensky has made during his entire presidency," says a Ukrainian soldier, urging for transparency.

"I don't know anyone who supports the decision to replace him. Not within the army, not in society," adds a fellow soldier.

Veterans and the public alike are demanding a clear rationale behind the move, citing fears that it could hamper Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian advances.

As debate intensifies, protests spread to Lviv, Kharkiv and Odesa, showing the high stakes of leadership decisions in wartime Ukraine.