Lauge Risom Koch 
Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is seeking investments for a defense fund and proposing a technology exchange with the US to secure Patriot missiles.
Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is seeking American investment to establish a defense technology fund. He proposed exchanging Ukrainian drone expertise for Patriot missile interceptors to defend against Russian attacks. This initiative coincides with his international tour following his dismissal from the cabinet.
Launching a defense technology fund
Fedorov traveled to Washington to seek backing from investors for his project. According to the Kyiv Independent, this fund would invest in startups focused on battlefield technologies. These investments aim to develop interceptor drones, combat robotics, and missiles equipped with artificial intelligence.
The former minister emphasized the nature of this opportunity during his interviews. Fedorov told the Kyiv Independent that “this is not exactly a classic venture fund” because they are writing a new history of warfare. He argued that Ukraine has already tested drones capable of downing Russian jet-powered threats.
To secure air defenses, Fedorov proposed a direct technology exchange with the American government. As reported by the Kyiv Independent, he offered to help Washington build an army of drones in return for Patriot interceptors. He stressed the need for these systems as Russian forces intensify strikes against infrastructure.
Navigating political changes
President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Fedorov from his position as defense minister during a cabinet reshuffle. This firing triggered protests across the country and elevated Fedorov as a political rival. According to the Kyiv Independent, Zelensky recently declined to reinstate him to his former post.
Following this rejection, Fedorov called for wartime elections to update the leadership structure. He defended this move by stating that it was not aimed at replacing any specific person in power. Instead, Fedorov told the Kyiv Independent that the country needs to “update the state’s operating system.”
Despite political friction, the former minister maintains that his focus remains on defense projects. He continues to advocate for weaponry to counter the military aggression from Moscow. As noted by the Kyiv Independent, Fedorov insists that Putin only understands force and cannot be engaged through dialogue.
Building international partnerships
Fedorov began his international tour with a visit to Italy before arriving in the United States. During this trip, he agreed to serve as an unpaid adviser to Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. According to the Kyiv Independent, the two officials discussed autonomous systems, air defense, and warfare technologies.
The former minister is considering similar advisory roles with other partner nations like France and the United States. He declined to confirm whether he planned to meet with officials from the incoming Trump administration. As highlighted by the Kyiv Independent, his press service emphasized his efforts to attract resources to Ukraine.
Fedorov also confirmed that he remains in contact with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. Ukrainian forces have relied heavily on Musk’s Starlink satellite communications system throughout the war. According to the Kyiv Independent, Kyiv is currently seeking approval to utilize Starlink on drones operating inside Russian territory.
