KYIV, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Ukraine's government dismissed a deputy defense minister responsible for weapons acquisitions on Tuesday amidst internal disagreements over procurement, hindering Kyiv's efforts to reassure key Western allies during a crucial period.
The disagreement erupted last week when the Defense Minister criticized Ukraine's arms acquisition process for failing to provide necessary equipment to front-line troops.
With the ongoing war entering its fourth year, Ukraine has been striving to streamline defense spending, given the heightened importance of U.S. President Donald Trump's decision on supporting Kyiv's military.
In addition to requesting the removal of Dmytro Klimenkov, Umerov specifically called out the Defense Procurement Agency, which oversees weapons procurement for Ukraine's under-equipped military.
Established after a series of corruption allegations earlier in the conflict, the agency's goal has been to eliminate middlemen and reduce the risk of corruption.
In a statement on Friday, Umerov criticized the agency for turning into an " 'Amazon'" with overly transparent purchases, whereas Ukraine traditionally kept arms procurement details highly confidential.
Umerov also stated that he would not extend the contract of agency head Maryna Bezrukova, a reformist welcomed by Western partners, and pledged to appoint a new director.
Responding, the agency claimed to have made significant strides in enhancing supply and lowering costs under Bezrukova's leadership, committing to continue on the same path.
The current stand-off coincides with Ukrainian troops confronting adversaries in the eastern regions, both sides striving for an advantage ahead of any potential peace negotiations. However, Kyiv's defenses are weakening due to a shortage of personnel and weaponry.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has called on Western allies to maintain their support by providing arms to Ukraine. The defense ministry's anti-corruption council, comprising appointed civic activists, warned that the internal strife could jeopardize these efforts.
In a Saturday statement, the council emphasized the detrimental impact of the current situation on Ukraine, its military, and international relationships, stressing the need for reliability and transparency for partners.
In a message on Monday, G7 diplomats in Ukraine urged a swift resolution to the dispute, emphasizing that adhering to good governance principles and NATO guidelines was crucial to uphold public and international trust.