Ukraine: Ex-Defense Minister Calls for Elections, Criticizes Zelenskyy Administration

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is demanding that Ukraine hold elections, a move that directly challenges President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's administration. Fedorov, a prominent Ukrainian politician, is the first significant figure to call for wartime elections since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.

Fedorov stated in a YouTube video, as reported by AFP and Reuters, that "Democracy cannot be a hostage of Russia." He emphasized the need to "find a legal, safe, and realistic way" to restore full democratic processes, even amidst a protracted war. His remarks suggest a critique of the current governance, with Fedorov accusing Ukraine of grappling with a crisis where "the old system too often lives by its own rules. It protects itself and fears change."

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Democracy cannot be a hostage of Russia.

Ukrainian law currently prohibits the holding of elections while martial law is in effect. Fedorov acknowledged the significant challenges involved in organizing elections during wartime, such as enabling voting for soldiers on the front lines or for the millions of Ukrainians displaced abroad. President Zelenskyy has not yet responded to Fedorov's demand.

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We must find a legal, safe, and realistic way to restore full democracy even in the midst of a protracted war.

This call for elections comes after President Zelenskyy dismissed Fedorov, a popular minister, in July, a move that sparked nationwide protests. Fedorov has reportedly refused other ministerial positions offered to him, stating he would only return as defense minister. Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday the appointment of Yevhenii Hmar as Ukraine's new defense minister, who has been acting in the role since Fedorov's dismissal.

During his tenure, Fedorov focused on efforts to combat corruption within the Ministry of Defense. Experts suggest this initiative may have unsettled individuals close to Zelenskyy. Some analysts also believe Fedorov's considerable popularity among the public may have been a factor in Zelenskyy's decision.

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The old system too often lives by its own rules. It protects itself and fears change.