Fired Ukrainian defense minister says Ukraine is in a "technological war" with Russia

Ukraine is locked in a "technological war" with Russia, requiring constant innovation and rapid decision-making, according to Mykhailo Fedorov, the recently ousted Ukrainian defense minister. Fedorov, widely recognized for shaping Ukraine's modern war-fighting strategy, told CBS News that defeating Russia depends on winning every technological cycle. "We need to defeat Russia in every technological cycle, and we have to make decisions 24/7," said the 35-year-old.

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We need to defeat Russia in every technological cycle, and we have to make decisions 24/7.

Fedorov, who was dismissed in mid-July, had championed the use of drones and robots as a key strategy to overcome Russia's larger military. His removal followed an irreconcilable feud with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's top general, Oleksandr Syrskyi, a move that sparked nationwide protests. Zelenskyy later removed Syrskyi from his position.

When asked about his dismissal, Fedorov declined to elaborate for an "American audience" but affirmed Ukraine's continued resolve. "Whatever the reason, it is important to understand that Ukraine will continue to fight," he stated. Fedorov is credited with significantly boosting Ukraine's offensive capabilities, including a tenfold increase in deep strikes into Russia and strengthening its domestic arms production.

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Whatever the reason, it is important to understand that Ukraine will continue to fight.

Recent reports indicate Ukraine's technological advancements, with Zelenskyy announcing on social media that Ukraine had struck a Russian space agency facility using newly produced Flamingo missiles. A Ukrainian defense technology company also tested a ballistic missile in June, with Fedorov estimating its use against targets in Russia within three to six months. Despite these advances, Ukraine struggles to intercept Russian ballistic missiles, increasing pressure to develop new air defenses. Fedorov expressed optimism about Ukraine's ability to adapt, stating, "It's difficult to predict, but I think everything is possible because we don't have any time to think about it."

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It's difficult to predict, but I think everything is possible because we don't have any time to think about it.

Fedorov viewed the protests over his firing as a testament to the Ukrainian people's commitment to democratic values and their fight for freedom. A former tech entrepreneur, he remained coy about a potential return to government, saying, "Soon we will see." He concluded, "But in any case, all my work will be aimed at ending the war and rebuilding Ukraine."

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Soon we will see.