Former Ukrainian defence minister takes role as innovation adviser to Italy

Ukraine’s former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose July dismissal triggered rare wartime demonstrations, confirmed on Aug 28 that he will act as an innovation adviser to Italy’s defence minister Guido Crosetto. In this capacity, Fedorov will assist Italy in advancing defence technologies, enhancing its sector and responding to evolving security challenges, while continuing to live and work in Kyiv. The appointment follows an offer.

The Italian defence ministry welcomed the collaboration, highlighting Italy’s interest in partners experienced in autonomous systems and air defence. Relations between Fedorov and President Volodymyr Zelensky had deteriorated after the sacking, especially after Fedorov called for postponed elections, a proposal Zelensky rejected. The Ukrainian presidential administration has not responded to the new appointment.