Ukraine’s military is facing significant challenges as Russia continues its invasion after years of conflict, according to the country’s new defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov. Fedorov addressed Ukraine’s parliament, highlighting issues such as widespread desertions, with around 200,000 troop departures, and approximately two million draft-dodgers. He emphasized the need to modernize the military’s organizational structure to align with new technologies.
Appointed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier this year, Fedorov, a 34-year-old former leader in Ukraine’s digital transformation efforts, is known for advancing the army’s drone technology and implementing successful e-government platforms. His appointment was part of a broader government reorganization aimed at enhancing security, defense development, and diplomacy, particularly in light of a new U.S.-led initiative to seek a peace settlement.
Fedorov disclosed that the Defense Ministry is encountering a significant financial gap of 300 billion hryvnia ($6.9 billion US). In response, the European Union pledged substantial support through a new loan program to bolster Ukraine’s military and economy in the coming years.
The defense sector in Ukraine has seen substantial growth since the Russian invasion in February 2022, according to Fedorov. He noted a significant increase in private drone and electronic warfare system companies, with the country now hosting nearly 500 drone manufacturers and about 200 electronic warfare firms. Additionally, new sectors have emerged, including approximately 20 private missile producers and over 100 companies specializing in ground-based robotic systems.