Ukraine's Ex-Defense Minister to Advise Italian Government on Military Innovation

Mychajlo Fedorow, who recently departed as Ukraine's defense minister, is set to advise the Italian government on military innovation. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced after a meeting in Rome that Fedorow accepted his offer to serve as a consultant in the military sector.

The discussions between Fedorow and Crosetto primarily centered on drones, unmanned systems, and air defense technologies. Fedorow expressed his intention to help Italy adopt modern warfare technologies, strengthen its defense sector, and adapt to new global security challenges. He emphasized that Ukraine possesses unique experiences it wishes to share with its allies.

Despite taking on this advisory role, Fedorow clarified that his main focus remains unchanged: continuing his work on critical projects in Ukraine that bolster its defense capabilities and attract international resources. His office confirmed that he will continue to be based in Kyiv while performing these duties.

Fedorow's departure from his ministerial post in July marked the fourth defense minister to be dismissed since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. The 35-year-old had served in the role for only six months. Many commentators suggested he was pushed out of office, leading to public demonstrations in Ukraine calling for his reinstatement.

Earlier in August, Fedorow called for elections in Ukraine, a move that reportedly further strained his relationship with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Elections are currently suspended due to martial law, which has been in effect since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Fedorow is considered a potential contender for the presidency should elections be held.