Ukraine dismissed its defense minister in July. He is now advising NATO country on defense innovation
Guido Crozetto called the dismissed Ukrainian minister the day after Kyiv let him go.
Mykhailo Fedorov, once the defense minister of Ukraine, has been appointed to advise Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto on defense innovation. The appointment came shortly after Fedorov was dismissed from his position in July. Prior to his role as defense minister, Fedorov served as deputy prime minister and digital transformation minister, where he established the Brave1 defense-tech cluster and led the Defense Ministry from January 14, 2026, until his dismissal.
Fedorov's dismissal led to nationwide protests as citizens called for his reinstatement. Fedorov had previously refused other positions offered by President Zelenskyy, stating that only the president, prime minister, and commander-in-chief can truly shape the war. In his new role as an advisor to Italy, Fedorov aims to assist Italy in developing modern warfare technologies and adapting to new security challenges.
He emphasized that the future of defense lies with countries that can rapidly test and scale innovative solutions, and Ukraine's experience could be a basis for a new defense model for Europe.
Upon assuming his advisory role, Fedorov met Crosetto during an international trip focused on digitalization and defense technology. The primary focus of their discussions centered on drones, autonomous systems, air defense, and the development of a defense-tech ecosystem. Fedorov affirmed that his main focus remains unchanged, as he continues to work in Ukraine on projects aimed at strengthening its defense capabilities and attracting international resources.
Written by urgent.news from Euromaidan Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
