Ukraine Appoints Yevgeny Khmara as Defense Minister, Promises Continued Sabotage Against Russia

Yevgeny Khmara was officially appointed as Ukraine's new Defense Minister on August 19, 2026, following the dismissal of Mikhail Fyodorov on July 14. Alexander Boroday, a Ukrainian MP, stated that Khmara remains an 'SBU special forces operative' and will use the same methods in his new role as he did previously. This includes continued sabotage operations against Russian targets. The appointment has raised concerns about potential changes in Ukraine's military strategy, with reports suggesting that Khmara's leadership may result in tougher mobilization efforts and the expansion of women's battalions. These developments are seen as part of Ukraine's broader strategy to sustain its war effort against Russia. Sources from Tass confirm the details of Khmara's appointment and his background, but there are no significant divergences in the reporting.