Full Breakdown
Mykhailo Fedorov Advises Italy on Defense Innovation
8/29/2026, 12:08:02 AM
Core Appointment and Objectives
Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has accepted an invitation from Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto to serve as an adviser on defence innovation. In the role, Fedorov will help Italy develop modern warfare technologies, strengthen its defence sector and adapt to emerging security challenges, while maintaining his primary focus on Ukrainian defence-tech projects and attracting international resources.
Background & Context
Fedorov led Ukraine’s defence ministry from January until his dismissal on July 15 as part of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s cabinet reshuffle. His removal sparked the largest wartime protests in Ukraine, with demonstrators calling for his reinstatement and suggesting he could be a presidential contender. After leaving the ministry, Fedorov announced an international trip aimed at advancing digitalisation and defence-technology collaborations. Italy’s defence posture toward the war has been cautious: on June 19 Crosetto stated that Italy would not fund NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List, and on June 25 Rome expressed concerns over EU sanctions targeting Russian individuals.
Timeline
- July 15 – Fedorov dismissed as Ukraine’s defence minister.
- June 19 – Crosetto announces Italy will not contribute to NATO’s Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) for Ukraine.
- June 25 – Rome and Paris raise objections to an EU proposal on visa bans for former Russian combatants.
- Late August – Fedorov announces, via social-media and a Telegram statement, that his first stop of the international trip is a meeting with Crosetto in Rome, where the advisory appointment is confirmed.
Official Statements & Responses
Fedorov reiterated that his advisory work will be conducted “in a non-staff capacity” and that his “main focus remains unchanged” – continuing projects that reinforce Ukraine’s defence capabilities and draw international support. Both officials emphasized discussions on drones, autonomous systems, air-defence and the broader defence-tech ecosystem.
Verbatim Quotes
- — Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukrainian ex-defence minister “I thanked Guido for his personal support and for inviting me to serve as his adviser on defense innovation.” — Mykhailo Fedorov, ukrainian ex-defense minister
- — Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukrainian ex-defence minister “During the meeting, we discussed drones, autonomous systems, air defense, and the development of the defense tech ecosystem,” — Mykhailo Fedorov, ukrainian ex-defense minister
- — Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukrainian ex-defence minister “Ukraine’s experience can become the foundation for a new European defense model,” — Mykhailo Fedorov, ukrainian ex-defense minister
- “We have said no from the beginning, and it is still a no,” — Guido Crosetto, Italian defence minister “We have said no from the beginning, and it is still a no,” — Guido Crosetto, italian defense minister
- “When would you like to come to Rome to work with me as an adviser?” — Guido Crosetto, Italian defence minister (July) “When would you like to come to Rome to work with me as an adviser?” — July, defense minister
Why It Matters
The advisory arrangement signals a deepening of European defence cooperation, with Italy seeking to incorporate Ukraine’s rapid-testing and scaling approach to new technologies. By sharing expertise on drones, autonomous systems and air-defence, Italy aims to modernise its own capabilities while supporting Ukraine’s ongoing need for international resources. The partnership also illustrates how former officials can continue to influence defence policy across borders, even after leaving domestic office.
