Story perspectives

Fedorov Becomes Italy’s Defence Innovation Adviser, in Kyiv

8/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov accepted an advisory role on defence innovation with Italy’s defence minister Guido Crosetto.
He will remain based in Kyiv while serving as Italy’s defence innovation adviser.
He will help Italy develop warfare technologies and adapt to new security challenges.
He will work on establishing a Ukrainian defence investment fund.
He was dismissed in mid-July 2026 after six months leading Ukraine’s defence ministry, prompting wartime protests.

History

Historical Context

Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea prompted Ukraine to overhaul its defence sector and obtain EU association backing, launching reforms that reshaped the armed forces. Building on that momentum, Kyiv now pursues joint research and development with European partners, aiming to attract additional significant EU-funded projects and deepen cross-border military innovation.

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Story summary

Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov accepted an advisory role on defence innovation with Italy’s defence minister Guido Crosetto.
He will remain based in Kyiv while serving as Italy’s defence innovation adviser.
He will help Italy develop warfare technologies and adapt to new security challenges.
He will work on establishing a Ukrainian defence investment fund.
He was dismissed in mid-July 2026 after six months leading Ukraine’s defence ministry, prompting wartime protests.

1 / 2