Fedorov: Dispute with Syrskyi was clash of visions, not personal feud

Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has stated that his disagreements with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi were not personal but rather a difference in vision regarding the conduct of the war.

In an interview with Ukrainska Pravda, Fedorov emphasised that the Ministry of Defence under his leadership never blocked any decisions by the General Staff or the Commander-in-Chief. "The army is fighting 24/7 and must be as effective as possible, even when I disagree with some decisions," he said.

Fedorov described the conflict as institutional and cultural. He had developed a vision for the war, which he presented to the president even before his appointment, and later to Syrskyi and the Chief of the General Staff. The vision called for faster decision-making, more freedom for young leaders, and the continuation of already-started reforms.

He also denied issuing ultimatums about retaining his post. After the press briefing and amid protests, he was offered several "posts" but refused decorative roles. "I simply said that I had a certain vision of what to do next. Wherever I am, I will follow this vision, but I will not take on a decorative post," Fedorov explained.