Zelenskyy Appoints New Defence Minister Amid Public Outcry

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara as the new acting defence minister, following the controversial dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov. This decision has sparked widespread protests across Ukraine, with demonstrators demanding Fedorov's reinstatement. The public outcry reflects not only dissatisfaction with the leadership change but also internal divisions within Zelenskyy's ruling party. As the situation unfolds, the president faces significant challenges in maintaining support among his allies and addressing the concerns of the populace, reminiscent of previous political turmoil in his administration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2026, 23:51 IST

New Defence Minister Takes Charge

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appointed a new acting defence minister following the dismissal of his predecessor this week. Despite widespread protests across the nation urging the reversal of this decision, Zelenskyy has chosen Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara, currently the acting head of Ukraine's Security Service, to fill the role. In his announcement, Zelenskyy commended Khmara for his expertise in modern warfare and technological combat operations. He emphasized that Khmara's primary responsibilities will include advancing ongoing reforms within the ministry and achieving the objectives that Ukraine has been pursuing. Once the necessary legal procedures are completed, Zelenskyy plans to formally request parliament to confirm Khmara's appointment permanently.

Reasons Behind Fedorov's Dismissal

The former defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, had only been in office since January but quickly gained a reputation for his effectiveness. He was recognized for accelerating weapons procurement and enhancing drone production, as well as for streamlining processes that had previously hindered the defence ministry's operations. His efforts in boosting drone manufacturing have been credited with helping Ukraine withstand a more formidable and better-equipped Russian military in recent months.

Public Reaction and Protests

Fedorov's removal sparked significant public discontent. Large crowds, particularly composed of younger individuals, gathered in Kyiv and other cities on Thursday morning. Demonstrators displayed signs that read "Hands off Fedorov" and "Stop sabotaging victory," while chanting slogans like "Shame!" As the day progressed, the protests intensified, with participants assembling outside the president's office, demanding Fedorov's reinstatement and voicing their discontent with chants of his name alongside phrases such as "We're not suckers!"

Internal Struggles Within Zelenskyy's Party

The backlash has extended beyond the streets. Reports indicate that lawmakers within Zelenskyy's ruling party have privately acknowledged a lack of sufficient votes to confirm the new appointee, highlighting the erosion of support for the president among his allies. This level of dissent is unusual, as Zelenskyy's party has largely backed his wartime decisions and cabinet selections since Russia's full-scale invasion began in 2022. This week's events represent a notable departure from that trend.

Historical Context of Public Discontent

This isn't the first instance of public outrage directed at Zelenskyy. Almost a year ago, he attempted to undermine the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies by placing them under the control of a prosecutor-general he had appointed. Although parliament initially approved the legislation, it was quickly retracted following widespread protests. The political fallout from that incident primarily affected Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyy's chief of staff at the time, who resigned in November. Currently, the anger appears to be more directly aimed at Zelenskyy himself, with protesters returning to the same square outside his office where they had previously compelled him to change course.