Ukraine's defence minister dismissed after six months in post

Ukraine's defence minister announced his departure from the post on Wednesday after six months in office. In a Telegram post, he described the role as a "great honour" and listed steps taken to improve procurement and expand drone output. The outgoing minister said the ministry had disabled Starlink access for opposing forces, procured additional drones to strike logistics targets, and isolated occupied Crimea.

He stated that procurement changes had saved the state budget "billions of dollars" and that a newly tested ballistic missile achieved 30 percent lower cost and higher accuracy.

A replacement is expected to be named from the leadership of the state energy company Naftogaz. The defence minister's removal follows reports of friction with the military commander in chief. Supporters of the outgoing minister expressed concern that reforms had not been given time to continue.

" An opposition member of parliament questioned why the minister had been placed in limbo. Online commentary showed widespread support for the minister, with thousands posting messages within minutes of the announcement. A thinktank deputy director described the rapid turnover of defence ministers as "abnormal" during an active war and noted visible improvements on the front line within three to four months.

Foreign partners and civil society groups had urged the government to retain the minister. It remains unclear whether he will receive another cabinet position.