Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities on Thursday, calling for the reinstatement of Mykhailo Fedorov as defense minister following his dismissal by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Protesters assembled outside the Presidential Office in Kyiv, chanting "Reappoint!" while waving Ukrainian flags and holding placards criticizing the government's decision to remove Fedorov from the post.

The dismissal has triggered widespread criticism from lawmakers, military personnel, veterans, and civil society representatives, many of whom argue that Ukraine is losing one of its most effective wartime officials without a clear public explanation.

Reflecting on his tenure, Fedorov outlined more than 20 key accomplishments, including efforts to disrupt Russian forces' access to Starlink satellite communications, coordinating strikes against Russian logistics hubs in occupied Crimea, and overseeing what he described as "an unpopular but extremely important" military reform program.

Supporters say his leadership played a significant role in strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities during the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko has been nominated to replace Fedorov as defense minister. However, his appointment requires parliamentary approval and has already encountered resistance, including from several lawmakers within the ruling Servant of the People party.

Many demonstrators argued that replacing Fedorov would undermine confidence in the military reforms he had initiated and called on parliament to reject Klymenko's nomination.

The protests remained peaceful, with participants urging lawmakers to reverse the dismissal and restore Fedorov to the position.

Ukranian President Zelensky addressed the protests during a joint press conference with visiting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who was in Kyiv on Thursday.

The Ukrainian leader acknowledged the public reaction, saying he had taken note of the concerns raised by demonstrators, but stopped short of indicating whether Fedorov would be reinstated.

"I understand, hear, and respond to what society is saying," Zelensky said.

"We are fighting for freedom and democracy. People do what they want."

"They wanted to take to the streets — and rightfully so."

The demonstrations mark one of the most visible public expressions of dissent in Ukraine in recent months, highlighting growing debate over leadership changes within the country's wartime government as the conflict with Russia continues. (ILKHA)