Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced that he accepted an offer from Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto to become an advisor in the field of digitalization and defense tech.
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced that he accepted an offer from Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto to become an advisor in the field of digitalization and defense tech.
Fedorov announced this on his social networks.
In his new advisory role, he will help the Italian side develop modern warfare technologies, improve its defense sector, and adapt to current security challenges. At the same time, Fedorov stressed that his key priority remains working in Ukraine on projects to strengthen defense and attract international resources.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the development of the defense tech ecosystem, drones, autonomous systems, and air defense.
«The future of defense belongs to countries that are able to quickly test and scale new solutions, combining technology with strong production. Ukraine’s experience can become the basis of a new defense model for Europe,» Fedorov emphasized.
He said that he and his team are currently on an international trip dedicated to the development of our new projects in the field of digitalization and defense tech. According to Mikhail Fedorov, he has already met with Crosetto and discussed drones, autonomous systems, air defense, and the development of the defense tech ecosystem.
On July 15, 2026, Mikhail Fedorov officially resigned as Minister of Defense amid a major government reshuffle and the resignation of Prime Minister Yulia Svirydenko. The dismissal was preceded by reports of internal conflicts between the Ministry of Defense and the leadership of the General Staff.
President Volodymyr Zelensky explained the personnel changes by the need to improve communication between departments and prepare for a difficult winter. After Fedorov’s resignation, peaceful protests by military and civilians began in a number of Ukrainian cities demanding his reinstatement.
On July 25, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced that he had offered former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov the position of advisor.
Fedorov later stated that he was ready to return to the post of head of the Ministry of Defense if President Volodymyr Zelensky made such an offer. He added that he saw no other options for himself as long as there was public demand and no final refusal.
On August 19, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine supported the appointment of Yevheniy Khmar as Minister of Defense. After the resignation of Mykhailo Fedorov, he was in the status of Acting Minister of Defense.
