Ukraine’s defense minister dismisses four of his deputy ministers

Source: Ukraine’s defense ministry

Ukraine’s defense ministry is facing a re-jig after minister Rustem Umerov removed four of his deputy ministers on Tuesday. Those set to leave their positions include Stanislav Haider (who is being reassigned as head of the Minister’s Office), Oleksandr Serhiy, Yuriy Dzhyhyr, and Lyudmyla Darahan.

Umerov stressed the need for transparency and control within the ministry in times of war. “The Ministry of Defense system—comprising the Armed Forces, Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), and State Special Transport Service (DSST)—operates in a closed perimeter under martial law. All internal and external attempts to interfere in these processes are unacceptable. In this context, we are making personnel changes,” Umerov stated.

The minister though didn’t reveal who will step in for the departing deputies, but promised to address the issue soon.

He also announced significant reforms in the defense procurement system with Spetstechnoexport agency (STE) now falling under the control of his ministry, rather than military intelligence (HUR).  According to Umerov, this move will help rid of corruption in  the procurement system.

The minister noted that reforms are ongoing at the Defense Procurement Agency (AOZ) and the State Rear Operator (DOT) to align them with NATO standards.  Supervisory boards for both agencies are expected to be established shortly, with the goverment submissions slated for this week.