Ukraine's ex-defence minister Mykhaylo Fedorow refuses new role, heightening political risk

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhaylo Fedorow, dismissed after six months in office, has declined any appointment other than returning to his former post. President Volodymyr Zelensky offered him a position overseeing military innovation, but Fedorow insists on reinstatement as defence minister, labeling other posts "worthless".

Fedorow is credited with advancing long‑range strike capabilities and drone tactics that have recently boosted Ukraine's battlefield performance. Analysts warn that his public confrontation with the president could supply Russian propaganda with material to exploit, potentially undermining national cohesion during the ongoing war.