Ukrainian soldiers protest minister's dismissal, fear return of Soviet-era tactics

Ukrainian soldiers and veterans took to the streets of Kyiv to protest the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, expressing deep concern that crucial reforms are at risk.

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It is demoralizing. People had hope that reforms were coming, that things were finally starting to change for the better. Changes were already visible. Now it seems everything is returning to how it was before.

Protesters, including former soldier Bohdan, 29, voiced their dismay, with Bohdan stating, "It is demoralizing. People had hope that reforms were coming, that things were finally starting to change for the better. Changes were already visible. Now it seems everything is returning to how it was before."

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I was shocked.

Dmitro, a 37-year-old drone unit soldier, warned of a return to "meat grinder" tactics and the old Soviet mentality following the replacement of the former Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi with Oleksandr Syrskyi. He credited Fedorov's appointment with the first serious effort to change the situation, noting visible results despite obstacles.

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Meat grinder tactics, along with the old Soviet mentality, have returned.

Another active soldier, Denys, 42, who has served for over four years, emphasized the army's need for reforms rather than another ministerial change. He attributed advancements in drone procurement, secure communications, recruitment center reforms, and proposals for fixed military service terms to Fedorov's efforts. Many soldiers are concerned about the lack of clarity on when their service will end, a situation they hoped Fedorov would address.

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Everyone saw the reforms. Many tried to obstruct him, but he managed to push them forward. The results are there.