Thousands Protest for 3rd Day Over Fedorov Ouster as Zelensky Weighs Army Changes
Updated
Updated · Kyiv Independent · Jul 18
Thousands Protest for 3rd Day Over Fedorov Ouster as Zelensky Weighs Army Changes
3 articles · Updated · Kyiv Independent · Jul 18
Summary
Thousands of Ukrainians rallied in Kyiv and at least 10 other cities on July 18, extending protests into a third day with demands to reinstate former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and fire commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Zelensky said he had spoken at length with both Fedorov and Syrskyi and promised that “decisions regarding the army will be worked out,” while a presidential adviser said the protesters’ message had been heard but implementation would take time.
The unrest followed Fedorov’s July 15 dismissal after just six months in office, amid a deepening clash with Syrskyi over leadership and strategy that critics say reflects a broader Soviet-style command culture.
Public skepticism persists because Zelensky already moved to install acting SBU chief Yevhen Khmara as acting defense minister on July 17, a step that also opened the way for the controversial Oleksandr Poklad to become acting SBU chief.
Is Ukraine sacrificing its technological edge for military unity by firing its defense minister?
Can a general criticized for 'Soviet-style' tactics win a modern war of drones and data?
Zelenskyy Faces Unrest After Fedorov’s Removal: Ukraine’s Struggle Between Innovation and Military Tradition
Overview
In July 2026, Ukraine faced major political turmoil after the abrupt dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was popular for his innovative use of drone and missile technology against Russia. This surprise move, rooted in a clash between Fedorov’s modern approach and the traditional views of military chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, sparked widespread protests and deep public discontent. President Zelenskyy defended his decision, but his explanation failed to calm the public or international observers. The situation raised serious concerns about Ukraine’s military strategy and unity, highlighting the risks of internal division during a critical phase of the ongoing conflict.