Volodymyr Zelensky’s sudden decision to replace popular defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has prompted debate about the country’s wartime leadership and military strategy. Fedorov, appointed in January, was widely credited with advancing technological innovation, improving military procurement, promoting greater transparency and strengthening Ukraine’s drone programme. His approach won support from many reformers but also brought him into conflict with senior military leaders over strategy and decision-making. The move has startled senior European officials and caused consternation, and demonstrations, in Ukraine. Zelensky has defended the change as part of maintaining unity, while critics argue it risks disrupting reforms at a crucial stage of the war. The appointment of an interim defence minister, Yevhen Khmara, who supports technological development, suggests that many of Fedorov’s initiatives may continue, although questions remain about how effectively they can be implemented. Update: Zelensky has now sacked army chief Oleksander Syrski, with whom Fedorov had repeatedly clashed. See