Protests Continue After Fedorov Dismissal in Kyiv

Thousands of protesters gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv on July 18, 2026, for a second day after a surprise government reshuffle that removed Fedorov, officials said. The demonstrations coincided with President Zelenskyy's efforts to repair a diplomatic rupture with Poland on day 1,606 of the war.

Zelenskyy seeks repair with Poland

Officials said the reshuffle prompted immediate public anger and focused attention on Kyiv's relations with Western partners. Protesters called for transparency over the changes while political figures urged calm; police maintained a visible presence outside government buildings, officials said. The presidential office described the personnel moves as aimed at stabilising governance, without providing a timetable for further changes.

The dispute with Poland centres on recent bilateral disagreements that officials say have strained military and diplomatic coordination. Ukrainian ministers and Polish counterparts have held contacts to lower tensions, the presidency said; Kyiv frames the outreach as essential to sustain logistics and political unity among allies. Analysts warn that an unresolved diplomatic rift could complicate procurement and cross-border transit relied on by frontline units.

Domestic politics and diplomatic repair are now running in parallel: protesters press for immediate answers while the presidency seeks quiet diplomacy with Warsaw. Expect new statements or briefings by July 19, 2026, as officials respond to both the street demonstrations and talks with Polish counterparts.