Laura Goci

Large protests erupted in several Ukrainian cities after President Volodymyr Zelensky unexpectedly dismissed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a popular figure credited with modernizing military operations and expanding drone and technology-driven warfare. Demonstrators in Kyiv voiced strong opposition, while military personnel and public figures criticized the move, citing Fedorov’s successes and ongoing reforms. Parliament is set to vote on his removal and the proposed appointment of Ihor Klymenko. The decision follows broader government reshuffling and speculation about internal conflicts within Ukraine’s leadership amid the ongoing war with Russia.

Boris Nadeždin, a Russian opposition politician known for his anti-war stance, was detained on charges of displaying extremist symbols after a brief image of the late opposition leader Aleksei Navalny appeared in a 2023 video on his social media. His detention follows the Russian Ministry of Justice’s decision to label him a foreign agent, jeopardizing his ability to participate in upcoming parliamentary elections. Nadeždin, previously barred from running in the 2024 presidential race, is presented as one of several opposition figures sidelined by authorities as Vladimir Putin secured another term amid tightening state control and worsening economic conditions.