Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's surprise decision to remove popular Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has triggered an outburst of anger from civil society and protests from MPs. Crowds of mostly young people gathered in Kyiv and other cities on Thursday, holding signs reading "Hands off Fedorov" and "Stop sabotaging victory!" and chanting "Shame!"

Zelensky appointed Maj-Gen Yevhenii Khmara, the acting head of the Security Service (SBU), as acting defence minister, citing his "extensive and unprecedented experience with technological combat operations."

The dismissal stems from tensions between Fedorov and Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Fedorov revealed he had suggested replacing Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov. Zelensky acknowledged a "systemic" conflict between the General Staff and the defence ministry.

Fedorov accused Syrskyi of "splitting the country," saying: "Instead of finding a way of defeating Russia asymmetrically, he's found a way of splitting our country." Syrskyi responded on Telegram, wishing Fedorov "continued success."

Fedorov, 35, appointed in January, was credited with energising the ministry, fighting corruption, and improving frontline performance. He previously led the "IT Army of Ukraine" and "Army of Drones" initiatives.

Ukrainian soldier Oleksandr told the BBC: "This is the worst mistake Zelensky has made during his entire presidency." Protester Maria Lavrynets said: "I have lots of friends in the military. Lots of them died. I don't want this to go on."

Renowned drone unit commander Pavlo Yelizarov resigned as deputy commander of the Ukrainian Air Force in protest, calling the sacking "a great evil for the country's defence capability."

Source: www.bbc.co.uk