Fedorov urges Ukraine to restore democratic elections despite ongoing war
Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for presidential elections during the ongoing war with Russia, presenting a major challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s leadership.
In a video posted online, Fedorov said democracy should not be held back because of Russia’s invasion and called for a legal and safe way to restore the country’s democratic process.
Elections suspended
Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Under the current rules, national elections cannot take place while martial law remains in force.
Fedorov argued that the prolonged war should not prevent Ukraine from finding a realistic mechanism to return to democratic elections.
Tensions with Zelensky
Fedorov, 35, was unexpectedly removed as defence minister in late July, only six months after taking the position.
His dismissal came after tensions within Ukraine’s leadership and sparked protests. He did not directly mention Zelensky in his latest video.
Criticism over governance
The former minister also warned of what he described as a “systemic crisis of governance”, pointing to corruption and resistance to change as issues affecting Ukraine’s war effort.
He did not reveal whether he intends to run for office himself.
Record in defence
Fedorov previously served as minister of digital transformation and became known for promoting drones, technology and digital innovation in Ukraine’s war effort.
During his time as defence minister, he continued pushing for greater use of technology and improved military procurement.
