Russian Propagandists Cheer Ukraine's Digital Minister's Dismissal

While the Kremlin formally downplayed personnel changes in Ukraine, Russian military circles and propagandists expressed significant approval following the dismissal of Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation.

Fedorov, who was instrumental in developing Ukraine's drone capabilities and digitalizing its military, was seen by Russian commentators as a formidable opponent. Oleg Tsarov, a Ukrainian defector to Russia, stated that Fedorov fostered a competitive drone procurement system and significantly increased the number of drone and electronic warfare equipment manufacturers. Moscow City Duma deputy Andrey Medvedev called the negative reaction in Ukraine to Fedorov's dismissal "good news for Russia."

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Fedorov proved to be a strong and effective enemy.

Russian military "Telegram" channels reacted with particular emotion, labeling the resignation "great news" and a "favorable factor for Russia." Some propagandists even appealed to Elon Musk, asking him to restore Russian soldiers' access to Starlink, recalling that Fedorov had been key in blocking the system's use by Russian drone operators.

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Good news for Russia.

According to Russian war bloggers, Fedorov, associated with Ukraine's advancements in unmanned technologies and military digitalization, was one of the most effective leaders. His dismissal, they believe, could weaken Ukraine's defense forces. "Overall, it's very good that Zelensky removed him from leadership. Too smart and effective an enemy. It should be a little easier now," said Russian propagandist Aleksey Zhivov.

Other Russian military bloggers echoed this sentiment. The author of the "Osvedomitel" Telegram channel noted that Fedorov's dismissal would likely lead to changes within the Ministry of Defense beneficial to Russia. Sviatoslav Golikov described Fedorov as an "energetic and creative technocrat" whose team's work over six months was "significant and tangible," viewing the personnel changes as a "positive signal for the Russian side."

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Overall, it's very good that Zelensky removed him from leadership. Too smart and effective an enemy. It should be a little easier now.