Zelensky reportedly considers replacing popular Defense Minister Fedorov

What happened

The Kyiv Independent reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is considering replacing Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, according to a senior Ukrainian official familiar with the matter. It remains unclear whether Fedorov would assume a new role within the government or who might succeed him.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure, battlefield claim or single-source assertion should be treated as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source or a named official. Fedorov enjoys significant trust among the Ukrainian public and politicians, with a May 2026 Kyiv International Institute of Sociology poll showing 50% of respondents trust him versus 21% who do not. His appointment had drawn rare cross-party support, including from opposition lawmakers who valued his engagement early in office.

Despite his popularity, some lawmakers have expressed frustration over Fedorov's handling of mobilization reforms, citing delays and a lack of clarity amid differing parliamentary expectations. An opposition lawmaker noted Fedorov's recent efforts to engage on mobilization issues might be too late to satisfy lawmakers' concerns.

Known from the source

• A senior Ukrainian official told Kyiv Independent on July 13 that Zelensky is considering replacing Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
• Fedorov has held various high-level government roles, including deputy prime minister and minister of digital transformation before becoming defense minister.
• Polling in May 2026 showed 50% public trust in Fedorov and 21% distrust.
• Fedorov secured Elon Musk/SpaceX's denial of Starlink access to Russian forces in February 2026.
• Fedorov initiated the logistics lockdown campaign against Russian logistics in May 2026.

What remains unclear

Fedorov's tenure includes notable achievements such as persuading Elon Musk and SpaceX to cut Russian access to Starlink satellite communications in early 2026, a strategic blow to Russian military operations. He also initiated Ukraine's "logistics lockdown" campaign targeting Russian supply lines and launched various military reforms that have drawn mixed reactions from the armed forces and society.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Official confirmation of Fedorov's removal or reassignment by Ukrainian government sources. Identity and credentials of any potential replacement for defense minister. Further official statements or responses from Fedorov or Zelensky's office regarding the reported consideration.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Kyiv Independent. Open the source.