Fedorov Rejects Zelenskyy's Offer, Declines Deputy Prime Minister Role

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has rejected a proposal from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to serve as deputy prime minister for military innovation. Fedorov, who has been instrumental in Ukraine's defense efforts, stated that he would only accept roles that allow him to make a substantial difference in the ongoing conflict.

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I am grateful to the president for all the options offered, but today there are only three positions in the country that, besides the troops on the battlefield, actually shape the course of the war. These are the President of Ukraine, the Minister of Defense, and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and therefore I will not accept any position other than Minister of Defense.

In a written response, Fedorov expressed gratitude for the offered positions but asserted that only three roles truly shape the war's direction: President of Ukraine, Minister of Defense, and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He explicitly stated his refusal of any position other than Minister of Defense.

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At the invitation of the president in January 2026, our team joined the Ministry of Defense with a specific plan to end the war: defend the sky, hold the front line, and attack the enemy's economy.

Fedorov highlighted his team's commitment since joining the Ministry of Defense in January 2026, aiming to strengthen air defense and undermine Russia's economy. He believes their plan to defend the skies, hold the front line, and attack the enemy's economy has allowed Ukraine to seize the initiative for the first time in years, creating an unprecedented opportunity to force Russia into peace.

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Our collective results have created something unprecedented, as we have gained the opportunity to force Russia into peace thanks to our strength, which is why we must not allow ourselves to lose it now.

He further argued that only the position of Minister of Defense would grant him the necessary authority to combat corruption in public procurement, complete the army's transformation, plan asymmetrical operations, and eradicate a culture of falsehood and irresponsibility within the system. The Ukrainian publication notes that a deputy prime minister role, without an existing ministry, would limit Fedorov's influence within the current structure. Meanwhile, many citizens are reportedly protesting across Ukraine, urging Zelenskyy to reinstate Fedorov to his previous position.

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No other role carries real authority to fight corruption in public procurement, complete the army's transformation, plan and execute asymmetrical operations against the enemy, and eradicate a culture of lies and irresponsibility within the system.