Italy’s Crosetto Offers Ukraine’s Ousted Fedorov Adviser Role

ROME-Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has offered former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov a position as his adviser after Fedorov’s dismissal from the Ukrainian government, according to an interview published on Saturday, underscoring Rome’s public recognition of the former minister’s role in reshaping Ukraine’s wartime military capabilities.

Speaking to Italian daily la Repubblica, Crosetto said he contacted Fedorov the day after he was removed from office and invited him to come to Rome to work alongside him as an adviser. Crosetto said the former Ukrainian minister was deeply touched by the proposal and viewed it as a gesture of respect and friendship.

Crosetto praised Fedorov for his contribution to military innovation during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, describing him as a key figure in transforming modern battlefield practices. He said Fedorov helped Ukraine initially withstand Russia’s assault before enabling its armed forces to regain momentum by introducing new technologies and changing the way military operations were conducted.

Fedorov, 35, earned a reputation as a technology-focused reformer and has been credited by supporters with expanding Ukraine’s drone capabilities while advancing reforms across the country’s defence sector. His work became closely associated with Kyiv’s efforts to integrate emerging technologies into military operations during the war.

His removal as defence minister earlier this month triggered uncommon public protests in wartime Ukraine, reflecting concern among some supporters over the leadership change. The dismissal came as Ukraine continues to confront Russia’s invasion while seeking to modernise its armed forces and strengthen defence production.

Following his removal, President Volodymyr Zelensky offered Fedorov alternative positions within the government. However, Fedorov declined those proposals, saying he would not accept any government post other than the one he had previously held.

Italy has been among the European countries backing Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, providing political, military and humanitarian support alongside its allies. Crosetto’s public offer highlights the value some European officials continue to place on Fedorov’s expertise in defence innovation despite his departure from Kyiv’s cabinet.

Neither Crosetto nor Fedorov indicated in the interview whether discussions had progressed beyond the initial offer. There was also no indication that Fedorov had accepted or was considering the advisory role in Italy.

The interview was published as Ukraine continues to adapt its military strategy and defence industry to meet the demands of the conflict, with technological innovation and drone warfare remaining central elements of its battlefield approach.