Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated today at a press conference in Kiev that Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky sought to divide the country instead of defeating Russia with asymmetric tactics, which is the commander-in-chief's duty.

This marks the first time Fedorov has spoken publicly since President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed him on 15/7. He revealed several details about his conflicts with General Syrsky since being appointed Ukraine's Defense Minister early this year.

Fedorov recounted proposing the replacement of both Commander-in-Chief Syrsky and Chief of General Staff Andrii Hnatov, believing this would enable Ukraine to defeat Russia with minimal losses. After President Zelensky affirmed he would not dismiss General Syrsky, Fedorov accepted the decision and did not issue an ultimatum.

Mykhailo Fedorov at a press conference on 16/7 in Kiev. Photo: AFP

However, Fedorov noted that all subsequent military reform initiatives he proposed were blocked. He explained, "Syrsky was unwilling to engage in direct discussions, instead holding private meetings, creating conspiracy theories, and suggesting external forces were behind media campaigns."

Fedorov accused General Syrsky of issuing ultimatums to President Zelensky and isolating generals who advocated for military innovation. These included Joint Command Chief Mykhailo Drapatyi and Deputy Air Force Commander Pavlo Yelizarov, who submitted his resignation today.

The former defense minister added that President Zelensky had offered him a position as an advisor or another role within the government, but he declined.

Fedorov acknowledged General Syrsky's crucial role in the initial phase of the conflict, crediting him with saving the country through the defense of Kiev, the Kharkov counteroffensive, and the recapture of Kherson in 2022. However, Fedorov argued that the nature of warfare has completely changed, with drones becoming a decisive factor on the battlefield.

President Zelensky and General Syrsky have not commented on the information.

Ukrainian army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky in Sumy province in October 2024. Photo: AFP

Mykhailo Fedorov was appointed by President Zelensky in January, becoming Ukraine's youngest Defense Minister, tasked with bringing new momentum to the country's military efforts. He was also an early proponent of widespread drone use.

During his six months as Defense Minister, the Ukrainian army achieved significant successes, particularly in drone development, and launched a comprehensive armed forces reform program. This led to Fedorov being known as Ukraine's "drone czar".

On 14/7, Ukraine's parliament approved Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko's resignation, leading to the entire cabinet's resignation as required by law. President Zelensky stated at the time that he had not decided whether Fedorov would continue as Defense Minister in the new government.

By 15/7, Mykhailo Fedorov announced he would not remain in the position.

Ukrainian media reported that President Zelensky is expected to nominate Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko as the new Defense Minister. According to Ukrainska Pravda, the Ukrainian leader previously confirmed to lawmakers that Fedorov had "systemic and irreconcilable" conflicts with General Syrsky and the military.

Fedorov's dismissal sent shockwaves through Ukraine's political landscape and led to protests. In Kiev, about 1,000-2,000 people, including many soldiers and veterans, gathered to oppose the decision.

Thanh Danh (According to AFP, Kyiv Independent, NV)