Mykhailo Fedorov has accepted an advisory role with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto while continuing his work on a Ukrainian defense investment fund.
Key facts
- •Mykhailo Fedorov will advise Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto on defense innovation.
- •Fedorov plans to remain in Ukraine to focus on creating a defense investment fund.
- •The advisory offer was first made by Crosetto in July, one day after Fedorov's dismissal.
- •Fedorov served as Ukraine's defense minister for approximately six months.
- •Fedorov has publicly advocated for wartime elections, a move opposed by President Zelenskyy.
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced on Friday that he has accepted an offer to advise Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto on defense innovation. Fedorov, who was dismissed from his government post in mid-July, stated he will assist Italy in developing modern warfare technologies and adapting to global security challenges.
Role and Continued Focus in Ukraine
Fedorov clarified that he is not relocating to Rome, noting that his primary focus remains on establishing a defense investment fund in Ukraine. He intends to balance his advisory duties in Italy with his ongoing efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense sector and secure international resources.
Background on the Appointment
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto extended the offer to Fedorov in July, the day after the former minister's dismissal. Crosetto praised Fedorov for his role in changing battlefield dynamics through innovation. Fedorov's departure from the Ukrainian government followed roughly six months in office, a period marked by policy disputes and tensions with military leadership.
Political Stance and Wartime Elections
Since his removal, Fedorov has publicly called for wartime elections, arguing that citizens need transparency regarding major government decisions. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected this proposal, warning that holding elections during the ongoing Russian invasion could destroy the country.
Timeline
- Mid-JulyMykhailo Fedorov was dismissed from his position as Ukraine's defense minister.
- JulyItalian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto offered Fedorov an advisory role.
- Early AugustFedorov called for wartime elections in Ukraine.
- FridayFedorov announced his acceptance of the advisory role in a Facebook post.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Politico Europe.
