Ukraine's political tensions deepened on Friday as protesters launched an open-ended campaign demanding President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reinstate ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, arguing the government's reshuffle has jeopardised crucial wartime reforms. Hundreds gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv, vowing to remain "as long as it takes" after a week of demonstrations that have turned a cabinet change into a wider test of confidence in the country's wartime leadership. Street Anger Refuses to Fade The protests first swelled last week when thousands called for Fedorov's return and the removal of then commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom critics accused of mishandling the war effort and slowing military modernisation. Although Zelenskiy replaced Syrskyi with respected commander Mykhailo Drapatyi, demonstrators made clear that was not enough. Chants of "We stood, we stand, and we will stand" echoed through central Kyiv as organisers pledged to keep up the pressure. Fedorov Rejects Symbolic Role Zelenskiy said Fedorov's dismissal stemmed from an irreparable conflict with Syrskyi and offered him several alternative positions, including vice prime minister for defence innovation. Fedorov publicly rejected the proposals, saying none carried the authority needed to continue the reforms he believes are essential. Protest organiser and military veteran Dmytro Koziatynskyi echoed that view, insisting Ukraine needed Fedorov as "a young reformer", not a figurehead stripped of real powers. War Effort Overshadows Political Fight Supporters credit the 35-year-old with driving technology-led reforms, tackling corruption in the defence ministry and helping strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities during the war with Russia. His departure comes as Ukrainian forces continue long-range strikes against military and energy targets inside Russia while simultaneously defending against sustained Russian missile attacks and frontline assaults. Protest signs reading "Bring Fedorov back" and "Let the manager manage" reflected fears that reform momentum could stall at a critical stage of the conflict. Leadership Vacuum Raises Stakes Despite mounting criticism, Zelenskiy has yet to nominate a permanent successor for parliamentary approval. Yevhenii Khmara, formerly acting head of Ukraine's domestic security service, has been appointed acting defence minister. Some protesters acknowledged Khmara's experience but warned Ukraine cannot afford months of disruption while a new leadership team settles in. For demonstrators, the dispute is no longer simply about one minister—it is about preserving reforms they believe are vital to sustaining Ukraine's war effort. Ukrainians back ousted defence minister as political crisis brews
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