Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov made a resonant proposal: he is ready to help the United States create a so-called "drone army" in exchange for the supply of interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems. The statement, made in an interview with the Financial Times and confirmed by Ukrainian media on August 30, 2026, came against the backdrop of growing pressure on Ukraine's air defense system and debates over a long-term strategy for confronting Russia.
"Experience for Iron": Fedorov's Formula
"I would be very happy to help America create a drone army," Fedorov stated. "Especially in exchange for Patriot interceptors, which Ukraine needs to get through the winter." According to him, Ukraine has accumulated unprecedented practical experience in the field of unmanned warfare, and this experience could become a valuable asset for the American defense industry. "I am ready to make such an exchange," the former minister emphasized. At the same time, Fedorov declined to comment on a possible meeting in Washington with representatives of Donald Trump's administration, leaving the question open.
Defense Technology Fund and American Investment
In parallel with the exchange proposal, Fedorov revealed plans to create a defense technology fund that, in his words, should "write a new history" of the war against Russia by creating and managing companies that develop new weapons. In his assessment, Russia will likely drag the conflict out for another two to three years, and it is precisely this fund that should develop the most advanced solutions for the battlefield, passing on to investors the experience Ukraine has gained during the hostilities. Fedorov reported that he is in talks with an "abundance" of potential investors — venture capitalists, private individuals, and American technology companies. However, he did not disclose details about his role in managing the fund or any potential personal financial gain.
International Advisory Roles: From Italy to France and the US
Commenting on his recently announced appointment as an advisor to the Italian Minister of Defense, Fedorov stated that he is seeking similar advisory positions in other partner countries — possibly in France and in the United States. Within the framework of the Italian project, he will help the country develop modern warfare technologies in the areas of digitalization and defense tech. This appointment became one of Fedorov's first public steps after leaving the post of Defense Minister, a position that, according to reports, was taken by Yevheniy Hmara.
Context: Leadership Change and Corruption Allegations
The new Ukrainian Defense Minister, Yevheniy Hmara, meanwhile, revealed the composition of his team in the Ministry of Defense and described what proposals he had discussed with Fedorov himself during the transfer of authority. Earlier, the former minister had also stated that President Volodymyr Zelensky himself should explain what he knew about the corruption situation in his immediate circle. In addition, it was reported that Fedorov received four proposals for further work in the president's team but declined all of them. Thus, his current trajectory — international advisory roles and private investment projects — appears to be a deliberate choice in favor of working outside the state apparatus.
