Zelensky Nominates Mikhail Fedorov as New Defense Minister

(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has put forward his close associate and technology leader, Mikhail Fedorov, to assume the role of Minister of Defense. This decision comes as the nation faces ongoing scandals involving high-level corruption that have unsettled the government.

In a video message delivered Friday evening, Zelensky commended outgoing Defense Minister Denis Shmygal for “solid results” and confirmed that he would continue to serve within the administration, though his future responsibilities have not yet been clarified.

Shmygal, who previously held the position of prime minister for five years, remained in the defense post for less than half a year.

“I have also decided to change the working format of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine… Mikhail is deeply involved in the issues related to the ‘drone line’ and works very effectively on digitalizing public services and processes,” Zelensky remarked, highlighting Fedorov’s technological expertise and his role in advancing drone warfare as “crucial” for strengthening Kiev’s military capabilities.

At 34 years old, Fedorov currently serves as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation, where he manages the “Diia” platform, Ukraine’s digital public services portal.

He has been outspoken in urging technology companies to isolate Russia, calling on Apple to restrict Russian access to its App Store and advocating for a ban on the video game Atomic Heart.

This nomination is part of a broader reshuffling of senior officials, following the resignation of Andrey Yermak, Zelensky’s long-serving chief of staff, in late November.

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