Zelensky Names Mykhailo Fedorov as Candidate for Ukraine’s Next Defense Minister

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed Mykhailo Fedorov, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation, as the new head of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.

The announcement was made during Zelensky’s evening address, as reported by Charter97.org.

According to the president, the decision reflects Ukraine’s growing emphasis on technology-driven warfare and institutional modernization. Zelensky highlighted Fedorov’s central role in developing Ukraine’s “drone line” and his track record in digitalizing public services and state processes.

“I proposed to Mykhailo Fedorov to become the new Minister of Defense of Ukraine. He is deeply engaged in the issue of the drone line and works effectively in the digitalization of public services and processes,” Zelensky said.

If confirmed, Fedorov’s appointment would mark a strategic shift toward integrating digital governance, unmanned systems, and rapid innovation more directly into Ukraine’s defense leadership—reflecting battlefield realities shaped by drones, data, and network-centric operations.

Zelensky also confirmed that the current defense minister, Denys Shmyhal, will remain within the government team. While stepping away from the defense portfolio, Shmyhal is expected to take on a different role in the cabinet, underscoring continuity at the senior leadership level amid wartime restructuring.

The proposed change comes as Ukraine continues to expand domestic drone production, streamline military procurement, and align defense decision-making with fast-moving technological and operational demands on the front lines.