Zelensky is preparing a high-profile rotation: who will head the Defense Ministry instead of Shmyhal
2 January 22:51
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced personnel changes in the government and proposed that the current Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov become the head of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. The head of state made the announcement on January 2, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
According to Zelenskyy, Fedorov has proven himself in the implementation of digital solutions and the development of military technologies, including drones, which play a key role in modern warfare.
“Together with the military, the command, Ukrainian arms manufacturers and international partners, it is necessary to implement such changes in the defense sector that will significantly enhance our capabilities,” the president emphasized.
Why Fedorov?
mykhailo Fedorov, 34, has been heading the Ministry of Digital Transformation since 2019. During this time, he has become one of the key drivers of the digitalization of public services, the launch of the Diia ecosystem, and the implementation of technological solutions in the security and defense sector.
The President emphasized that Fedorov’s experience in innovation could be important for the modernization of the defense ministry.
Who will he replace?
If approved, Fedorov will replace Denys Shmyhal, who took over as Defense Minister in July 2025.
Prior to that, Shmyhal served as Prime Minister of Ukraine.
His future plans have not yet been announced, but Zelenskyy noted that Shmyhal “remains in the team of Ukraine” and thanked him for his work at the Ministry of Defense.
Other personnel decisions
Also on January 2, it became known that Kyrylo Budanov accepted the President’s offer to head the Office of the President. Thus, the beginning of the year was marked by several important personnel signals regarding the renewal of the management team in the security and public administration sector.
The President is expected to submit relevant proposals to the Verkhovna Rada in the near future to formalize the changes.
