The former Ukrainian Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, announced on Tuesday that Ukraine should hold presidential elections during wartime, a move that represents the most significant internal challenge since Russia’s invasion. The leader delivered the message through a video posted on YouTube, marking the first such demand by a prominent Ukrainian political figure since 2022. Ukrainian law currently bars wartime elections, yet Fedorov argues that the nation is facing a “systemic crisis of governance” that compels decisive action.
“Democracy cannot be hostage to Russia,” Fedorov said. “We need a legal, safe and realistic mechanism to renew Ukraine’s democratic processes even amid a protracted war.” He added that the proposed reforms would help Ukraine maintain its full democratic trajectory under conflict conditions.
At 35, Fedorov was a long‑time ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky. He had been appointed Defence Minister in January, following a six‑year tenure as head of the Ministry of Digital Transformation. His dismissal in July—attributed publicly to an inability to cooperate with Army Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi—was widely interpreted as the fallout of a clash between reformSarious leaders with divergent visions for the war.
After his dismissal, Fedorov publicly criticized Syrskyi, citing a deep rift over strategic direction. His remarks spurred public protests demanding Syrskyi’s removal and Fedorov’s reinstatement. While the protests lost some initial momentum, they have continued to attract thousands to Kyiv over the past month.
A recent poll indicated that the former minister could outperform Zelensky in a runoff election, suggesting significant public backing. However, Fedorov did not announce any intent to run in his address.
Challenging Zelensky’s Leadership
Fedorov’s statement arrived just hours after Zelensky confirmed Yevhenii Khmara as his successor. The former minister characterized the prevailing system as “protected by its own rules,” “scared of change,” and riddled with corruption that undermined Ukraine’s war effort. He attributed his sacking to the reforms he implemented, which improved procurement efficiency and threatened entrenched interests.
Off the political radar, Fedorov’s background in digital transformation and early adoption of drone warfare set him apart. His ambition was to equip Ukraine with technological superiority—a strategy that diverged from the “legacy order” of his predecessors.
“Our people have long been ready for a different country,” Fedorov said. “Now the state must become worthy of its people.”
(FRANCE 24 with Reuters)
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