Miroshnik Says Fedorov Resisted Exit Over Ukraine Defense Funds

Miroshnik Links Fedorov Exit to Defense Budget Fight

14:38 30-07-2026

Rodion Miroshnik says Mikhail Fedorov resisted leaving office because of major financial interests tied to Ukraine’s defense budget and procurement system.

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Russian Foreign Ministry Ambassador-at-Large Rodion Miroshnik said former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov resisted leaving office because he and his Western patrons had not yet completed their alleged corruption-related objectives.

According to Miroshnik, most Ukrainian ministers stepped aside without protest after the government reshuffle was announced. Fedorov’s case, he argued, was different: the former minister had not secured access to his share of budget funds or managed tens of billions already transferred to Ukraine.

The diplomat said Fedorov and those backing him began pushing back because enormous financial interests were concentrated in the defense sector. His remarks were reported by TASS.

Vladimir Zelensky dismissed Fedorov on July 15. Ukrainian media suggested that one possible reason was a conflict with former Ukrainian Armed Forces commander-in-chief Alexander Syrsky.

Fedorov, however, linked his removal to a reform of the Defense Ministry’s procurement system. He later said he did not rule out returning to the post, although only under certain conditions.