During a recent meeting in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the dismissal of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, highlighting the circumstances leading to the decision and its repercussions. Fedorov’s involvement in public protests and demands for an election were termed misguided by Zelenskyy, alongside problematic defense spending and misinformation.
Zelenskyy also addressed the challenges posed by Ukraine’s diminishing stockpile of Patriot air-defense missiles. Deliveries from Western allies have decreased over three years amid heightened Russian missile attacks. Despite these hurdles, Zelenskyy reported significant gains on the battlefield, nearly reclaiming the Dnipropetrovsk region from Russian control with only about 10 square kilometers remaining.
Regarding the Fedorov controversy, Zelenskyy detailed multiple options he offered to retain Fedorov in government, all of which were declined. Fedorov’s dismissal incited protests, though they did not alter the outcome. Zelenskyy warned that holding elections during the ongoing conflict could fracture the country, stating, “Elections during war could split Ukraine apart.” This sentiment echoed previous pressures he faced to conduct a poll without viable plans for safe execution.
The discussion extended to an uncomfortable diplomatic incident involving Starlink and Elon Musk. Zelenskyy recounted being misinformed by his Defense Ministry about SpaceX’s alleged approval for Starlink’s use over Russian territory, which led to an awkward exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump. Musk later denied such plans, making Zelenskyy’s proposal contentious.
On defense leadership, Zelenskyy defended dismissed Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi and current Defense Minister Maj. Gen. Yevhen Khmara against extreme criticism from protesters, emphasizing respect for military figures who facilitated peaceful demonstrations in Kyiv.
Financial strains on the defense budget were also discussed, with Zelenskyy revealing a $27 billion shortfall following substantial early-year expenditures. Amid ongoing anti-corruption investigations, he distanced himself from any allegations, asserting investigators had “zero questions” regarding his involvement.
On military operations, Zelenskyy expressed optimism for regaining territory, anticipating Ukraine could match Russia in territorial control by year’s end. He noted Russia’s intense focus on the Konstantynivka-Sloviansk-Kramatorsk axis and conditions tied to Donbas region withdrawals.
Zelenskyy highlighted challenges with acquiring Patriot missiles amidst escalating Russian ballistic attacks, aiming for an additional 300 missiles to bolster defenses. The shortage contrasts with Russia’s potential production capacity, posing significant risks.
Other developments included Ukrainian drone strikes affecting Russian industrial sites and casualties from drone attacks on both sides. International solidarity was shown by Nordic and Baltic leaders visiting Kyiv ahead of Ukraine’s Independence Day, underscoring ongoing support.