President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has offered former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov a new leadership position following six days of public protests.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he has offered former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov a "worthy leadership position" aimed at integrating the country's technological capabilities. The offer follows nearly a week of demonstrations in Kyiv and other cities where protesters demanded Fedorov's reinstatement and the dismissal of Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Leadership Changes and Military Strategy

Zelenskyy stated that the proposed role for Fedorov would focus on consolidating Ukraine's technological assets to ensure their continued development. The president also highlighted the security expertise of acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara, citing his previous leadership of the Special Group Alpha of the Security Service of Ukraine as a vital asset for the government. Zelenskyy emphasized that the goal of these changes is to strengthen Ukraine's position on the front line and increase pressure on Russia to force a peace agreement.

Protests and Internal Conflicts

Demonstrations calling for Fedorov's return and Syrskyi's removal took place daily from July 16 through July 21. Zelenskyy acknowledged that significant friction existed between Fedorov and Syrskyi, noting that unresolved issues regarding battlefield operations, brigade management, and mobilization persisted. Following these tensions, Syrskyi issued an apology to Fedorov on July 20, stating he had been unaware of the extent of the conflict between them. Subsequently, Zelenskyy announced the dismissal of Syrskyi as commander-in-chief, appointing Mykhailo Drapatyi as his successor.