Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated in an interview with 24 Kanal that widespread corruption is preventing Ukraine from concluding the war from a position of strength. According to Fedorov, the issue involves hundreds of individuals rather than just a few people or senior officials, noting that many have established financial schemes over the years to profit from the state budget and are supported by numerous law enforcement officers. He added that these networks obstruct proper decision-making and that the widespread public perception that “everyone steals” is abnormal.
When asked why he did not publicly name those involved, Fedorov stated that the identities of the corrupt individuals will eventually be revealed to the public through law enforcement recordings, journalistic investigations, or other means, emphasizing that Ukrainian culture ensures such information eventually comes to light. Although these corrupt actors have previously resisted reforms—such as during his tenure at the Defence Ministry—Fedorov expressed confidence that they will ultimately lose, citing public protests and the ongoing work of anti-corruption agencies as evidence of positive change. Additionally, Fedorov mentioned that he has not spoken with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a few weeks.
This interview follows a recent video address in which Fedorov criticized private influences in parliament—particularly regarding defense, pharmaceuticals, gambling, and taxation—and described Ukraine as facing a systemic crisis of governance.
