Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s former defence minister, was recently appointed as an adviser to Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto on defence innovation. This prompted a sharp reaction from the Kremlin, where Maria Zakharova called the decision "absurd". Fedorov himself proposed cooperation with the US, including the creation of a "drone army" in exchange for Patriot missiles. Meanwhile, he remains in Ukraine and is not disclosing any state secrets. Ukrainian Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara expressed a desire to cooperate with Fedorov but has yet to receive a response. The decision has attracted widespread interest both in Ukraine and abroad.
Why did Fedorov’s appointment in Italy provoke outrage in the Kremlin?
Mykhailo Fedorov’s appointment as an adviser to Italy’s defence minister provoked outrage in the Kremlin because Russia views it as a political gesture of support for Ukraine. Appointing Ukraine’s former defence minister to such a position in a strategically important country like Italy prompted both misgivings and irritation, as it could change the balance of power in the region.
What proposal did Fedorov make to the US regarding military cooperation?
Mykhailo Fedorov proposed creating a "drone army" for the US in exchange for supplying Ukraine with Patriot missiles. This initiative could strengthen both countries’ defence capabilities and establish a new form of cooperation in military innovation. Such a partnership could bring significant benefits to both countries’ defence capabilities.
What is Mykhailo Fedorov’s position on the possibility of working as an adviser to foreign governments?
Fedorov and his press office clearly stated that working as an adviser to foreign governments does not involve disclosing state secrets. This allows him to use his skills and experience beyond Ukraine without putting national security at risk. He can thus influence foreign countries’ military policy while remaining safe.
How did Ukraine react to Fedorov’s appointment in Italy?
Opinions in Ukraine were divided: some consider the appointment a good career opportunity, while others, including opposition representatives, expressed scepticism and criticism, calling it a display of vanity. Nevertheless, Fedorov’s decision to accept the Italian defence minister’s offer is seen as a significant step on the world stage.
What are the prospects for future cooperation between Fedorov and Ukraine’s defence minister?
Ukrainian Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara proposed that Mykhailo Fedorov explore ways for them to work together. This could open up new opportunities for cooperation, but given Fedorov’s international commitments, the direction their joint work might take remains unclear. Significantly, the opportunities for such cooperation are expanding considerably.
