Mikhail Fedorov, former Ukrainian Defense Minister, has agreed to serve as an innovation advisor to Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. The role will not involve the disclosure of state secrets or the transfer of sensitive military information necessary for the development and production of defense products.
The press service emphasized that engaging former high-ranking officials as advisors to foreign governments is a common international practice. Citing examples, they referenced Canada’s former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who have both served as economic advisors to Ukraine’s leadership. Additionally, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has pursued international consultancy work in politics and security following his departure from office.
The press release further noted that Fedorov’s advisory role focuses on sharing his management and expertise in technological warfare, accumulated during the ongoing conflict. This collaboration is viewed as vital for Ukraine, as it enhances cooperation with NATO countries. Fedorov is also looking to initiate numerous other international cooperation projects.
Despite his new role, Fedorov will continue to reside and work in Ukraine, maintaining his primary focus on assisting the country. His international work is expected to garner increased attention, partnerships, and investments in new projects.
This announcement comes amid questions online regarding Fedorov’s access to state secrets during his tenure as Defense Minister. Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Honcharenko raised concerns about the legal framework governing international transfers of military goods and technical assistance, questioning whether Fedorov has the necessary permissions to engage in such roles.
“I trust Mikhail and I am sending an inquiry to State Export Control: has the relevant permission been issued to Fedorov? However, I have a feeling that it has not,” Honcharenko stated in his post.
Context
- On July 15, the Ukrainian Parliament supported the resignation of the government led by Yulia Svyrydenko. Following news of Fedorov’s absence from the new Cabinet, some Ukrainians protested demanding his reinstatement and the replacement of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
- Media reported that Fedorov’s replacement could be linked to conflicts with former Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. During a July 15 meeting, President Volodymyr Zelensky explained to deputies that he could no longer tolerate the ongoing conflicts between Fedorov and Syrskyi.
- On July 23, Zelensky mentioned he had offered various positions to Fedorov within the government, including the role of Deputy Prime Minister, but Fedorov declined, expressing a desire to return to his previous post.
- Currently, the Ministry of Defense is being managed temporarily by former SBU head Yevhen Hmari, with no indications that this decision will change.
