Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Advocates for Elections Amid Ongoing War

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s former defense minister, has called for elections despite the ongoing war with Russia. This marks the first substantial challenge to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s authority since the conflict began. Zelenskyy enacted martial law in February 2022, stopping any elections as Russian forces invaded.

Fedorov released a video on YouTube stating, Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia, and urged Ukraine to establish a legal, safe and realistic mechanism to reinstate democratic processes, even during the war. He emphasized Ukraine’s desire to remain a free European state.

Before his dismissal last month, Fedorov significantly impacted Ukraine’s defense strategy by incorporating drones and robots to counter Russia. His efforts increased Ukraine’s deep strikes into Russian territory and enhanced Ukraine’s military capabilities.

Zelenskyy fired Fedorov in July, citing a conflict with top general Oleksandr Syrskyi. This decision led to widespread protests across Ukraine, as many criticized the removal of the respected minister. Fedorov’s strategies were credited with shifting the war’s momentum in Ukraine’s favor.

In a CBS News interview before calling for elections, Fedorov noted the public protests as evidence of Ukrainians’ commitment to democratic values and their fight for freedom. Although Fedorov did not detail his future plans if elections occur, he mentioned he would consider returning as defense minister.

Fedorov recognized the challenges of conducting elections during wartime, including ensuring the feasibility for soldiers, those near the front line, and displaced Ukrainians to vote. He stated, This is complex. … But complexity does not mean impossibility.