Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has fired his defense minister, citing the need for “new approaches” as the war with Russia enters its 19th month, writes CNN.

“This week, parliament will be asked to make a personnel decision … I have decided to replace the minister of defense of Ukraine. Oleksii Reznikov has gone through more than 550 days of full-scale war”, - Zelensky said.

He nominated Rustem Umerov, the former people’s deputy of Ukraine, to become the new defense minister.

“The Verkhovna Rada (legislature) of Ukraine knows this person well, and Mr. Umerov does not need any additional introductions. I expect parliament to support this candidate”, - said the President.

Reznikov has served as defense minister since November 2021, having previously served in other governmental roles such as deputy prime minister, according to his biography on the defense ministry website. His removal comes in the wake of a number of corruption scandals involving Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense.