Protests continue in Kyiv demanding Fedorov's reinstatement as defence minister

Thousands have protested in Kyiv for the ninth consecutive day, calling for Mykhailo Fedorov's return as defence minister. The demonstrations resumed after a three-day pause, following the dismissal of Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.

By Conor McAuley1 min read

Protesters in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities demanded President Volodymyr Zelensky reinstate Mykhailo Fedorov as defence minister. The demonstrations have continued daily since July 16, initially calling for both Fedorov's reinstatement and Syrskyi's removal.

Zelensky dismissed Syrskyi on July 21 and appointed General Mykhailo Drapatyi as his successor. The government has not provided a detailed explanation for Fedorov's dismissal, citing only the conflict between him and Syrskyi.

Fedorov rejected a proposed government role focused on military innovation, stating he would accept no position other than defence minister. The protests resumed on July 24 after a pause, with no decision from Zelensky on Fedorov's reinstatement.