Zelensky’s team closes the door on Fedorov’s return as defense minister

Zelensky’s inner circle has officially ruled out the possibility of reinstating former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov — even as protests demanding his return continue across Ukraine for the thirteenth consecutive day.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine.

Sources close to the president said on Monday that Zelensky has no intention of bringing Fedorov back. Government representatives expressed confidence that the protests will soon die down. Major General Yevhen Khmara, who assumed the post on July 20, will continue to serve as acting defense minister.

A political deadlock

The crisis began on July 15, when Zelensky dismissed Fedorov — the youngest defense minister in Ukraine’s history — after just six months in office. The reason was a conflict between the reform-minded minister and then-Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrsky. During his tenure, Fedorov was an active proponent of drone use and military innovation.

Zelensky subsequently offered Fedorov a number of alternative positions, including the post of deputy prime minister for military innovation. Fedorov rejected all the offers.

“I will not accept any position other than defense minister,” he said on July 23, stressing that only the head of the defense ministry has the authority needed to complete military reforms.

The standoff intensified when, on July 21, Zelensky dismissed Syrsky — one of the protesters’ key demands — and appointed General Mykhailo Drapatyi in his place. However, the second demand — Fedorov’s reinstatement — has now been officially ruled out.

Rising popularity and political speculation

A public opinion poll published by the Rating group on July 22 showed that trust in Fedorov rose from 35% to 65% in a single week, surpassing Zelensky’s own approval rating. A separate electoral preference poll conducted on July 20–21 placed Fedorov at 13.4%, making him one of the most popular potential political figures in the country.

The Carnegie Foundation noted that Fedorov “has become the political face of an alternative vision for managing the war.” Despite spreading speculation, Fedorov’s inner circle has made clear that he has no immediate political ambitions beyond the defense portfolio.

Protests continue

Organizers announced a new protest march in Kyiv scheduled for July 31, calling for “dialogue and reforms in the defense sector.” Veteran activist Dmytro Koziatynsky urged other cities to join the action, indicating that the movement is far from exhausted — despite Zelensky’s team declaring the matter closed.