In a stark assessment, former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov stated that Ukraine has only a few months to shift the course of the ongoing war. He emphasized that the lack of a comprehensive strategy for victory and stagnation in innovation are significant impediments to the country’s progress.
Fedorov, who led the defense ministry for six months from January to July 2026, expressed concern that Ukraine’s development is hindered by “deeply rooted corruption and patronage networks,” as well as a lack of political independence within state institutions. He noted that the country is at a critical juncture that will determine its future direction, adding, “it seems we are gradually, slowly losing.” This comment sharply contrasts the official rhetoric coming from Kyiv.
Despite his concerns, Fedorov maintained that Ukraine still has a chance for victory but urgently needs a concrete plan to end the war. In response to his comments, the Office of the President stated that during his tenure, he had a positive outlook on the conduct of the war; the only change, they asserted, is his personal status since leaving office.
The president’s office quoted Reuters in its response.
Context
- Mikhail Fedorov served as Ukraine’s Minister of Defense from January to July 2026.
- After his resignation, President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned he had offered Fedorov various roles in the government, including the position of Vice Prime Minister, but Fedorov declined, expressing a desire to return to his previous role. The new Minister of Defense is Yevheniy Khmara, who previously served as acting head of the Security Service of Ukraine.
