Sacked defense minister Fedorov promises new ‘game-changers’ outside government, addresses public outcry

Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov recently addressed his departure from government, ongoing talks with Elon Musk, and public outcry over his dismissal in an interview with Irish journalist Caolan Robertson. Fedorov expressed his determination to continue driving military innovation outside official government channels, stating that he has a team and experience to help achieve Ukraine's goals.

He acknowledged that the protests against his dismissal were driven by societal anxiety over Ukraine's future course, rather than his personal role. Fedorov emphasized the importance of maintaining hope for stopping the war, rebuilding the country, and finding the best path to defeat Russia. He maintained communication with Musk despite political tensions, ensuring Ukraine continues to access critical defense technologies.

Fedorov called for establishing a legal, safe, and realistic mechanism to hold elections during the war, warning against an indefinite suspension of the democratic process. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed Yevhenii Khmara as defense minister on August 18, following Fedorov's dismissal. Khmara, a former special operations officer, succeeds Fedorov, who held the post from January to July 2026 and became the youngest defense minister in Ukraine's history.