President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fired Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's popular defense minister, in a government reshuffle. Fedorov had championed innovation on the battlefield, particularly through expanded use of drones, and played a key role in helping Ukraine gain military advantages against Russia.
The dismissal came as Ukraine was advancing drone deals and awaiting licenses for Patriot missiles. Fedorov's removal drew intense criticism, reflecting his popularity and the significance of his tech-focused approach to modernizing Ukraine's military capabilities during the ongoing conflict.