Second Day of Kyiv Protests Over Defence Minister Fedorov's Ouster

Protesters in Kyiv have staged a second day of demonstrations demanding the dismissal of Ukraine’s commander‑in‑chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, as public discontent grows over President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s unexpected cabinet reshuffle. The protests erupted after the popular defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, was not reappointed, a move that many citizens view as a reversal of a key wartime leadership decision.

Syrskyi, 35, has been widely credited with contributing to Ukraine’s recent successes in its conflict with Russia, and his removal has sparked significant backlash among the populace. The demonstrations, which have drawn thousands of participants, call for a review of the decision and for the reinstatement of Fedorov, citing his proven record in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

The unrest reflects broader concerns about the direction of Ukraine’s military strategy and the government’s handling of the war. As the protests continue, officials remain under pressure to address the public’s demands while maintaining the operational integrity of the armed forces.