Ukraine's President Fires His Defence Minister, Sparking Public Outcry

On July 16, 2026, Ukraine's President Zelensky fired Defence Minister Fedorov. Fedorov had tried to get the top army commander, Syrskyi, removed. Zelensky kept Syrskyi. Fedorov said his work was being blocked. Protests spread across Ukraine for five days. Most Ukrainians — 61% — opposed the firing. Protesters wanted Syrskyi out and Fedorov back.