Zelenskyy reshuffles military command but Fedorov crisis persists

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed decrees appointing new military leadership, naming Gen. Mykhailo Drapaty as the new head of the Army and Gen. Ihor Skibiuk as the chief of the General Staff. These changes occur as the nation grapples with the fallout from the dismissal of Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.

Fedorov has yet to publicly accept or decline a new government position offered by Zelenskyy, intended to allow him to continue his technological transformation initiatives for the military. Despite his departure from the Defense Ministry, Fedorov expressed support for Drapaty's appointment on social media, calling it "a breath of fresh air and a new reason for hope."

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It is a breath of fresh air and a new reason for hope in the fight of free people for freedom and justice. It is the voice of change that cannot be ignored.

Drapaty, a young and reportedly reform-minded general, aligns with Fedorov's vision for the army. Fedorov's significant public profile since his removal was highlighted by a new poll. The survey indicates that Ukrainians trust Fedorov more than President Zelenskyy, with 65% expressing confidence in him, compared to 59% for Zelenskyy.

Furthermore, 72% of poll respondents opposed Zelenskyy's decision to remove Fedorov from his defense post, with only 5% approving. The popularity of the former minister could lead to public demonstrations if he does not accept the alternative government role. An anonymous veteran has called for protests if Fedorov is not reinstated as Defense Minister.

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We must not forget that the second demand of the protest was to reinstate Mykhailo Fedorov as Defense Minister.