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Zelensky Dismisses Defence Minister, Commander; Appoints Khmara, Drapatyi

7/26/2026

29 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and commander Oleksandr Syrskyi on 15 July, naming Yevhenii Khmara defence minister and Mykhailo Drapatyi commander-in-chief.
Fedorov refused posts, saying only the defence minister, commander-in-chief or president can shape the war, while supporters protest daily for his return.
Opposition MP Oleksandr Merezhko said the reshuffle aimed to curb Fedorov but boosted his rating.

History

Historical Context

After Russia’s 2022 invasion, Ukraine has cycled through four defence ministers; Mykhailo Fedorov, appointed in January 2026, announced two million evaders and UAH300 billion overspending before cutting artillery costs by 16%. His July 15 2026 dismissal by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, amid clashes with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, sparked nationwide protests, echoing earlier leadership reshuffles aimed at sustaining Western aid.

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Story summary

President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and commander Oleksandr Syrskyi on 15 July, naming Yevhenii Khmara defence minister and Mykhailo Drapatyi commander-in-chief.
Fedorov refused posts, saying only the defence minister, commander-in-chief or president can shape the war, while supporters protest daily for his return.
Opposition MP Oleksandr Merezhko said the reshuffle aimed to curb Fedorov but boosted his rating.

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