Ukraine’s former Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for presidential elections to be held despite the ongoing war with Russia, delivering one of the strongest public challenges to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s leadership since the full-scale invasion began.
In a video published on Tuesday, Fedorov argued that Ukraine’s commitment to democracy should not be suspended because of the war.
“Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia,” Fedorov said, stressing that Ukraine was fighting to remain a free and democratic European country.
Ukraine has remained under martial law since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Under the current wartime restrictions, national elections cannot be held.
Fedorov’s Growing Challenge
Fedorov, 35, did not directly mention Zelenskyy by name in his address. However, his call for elections is widely viewed as a significant political challenge to the Ukrainian president.
The former minister was unexpectedly removed from his position last month, only about six months after taking office. His dismissal triggered protests in parts of the country, with demonstrators calling for his return to the Defence Ministry.
Around 100 protesters reportedly gathered outside Ukraine’s parliament on Wednesday, chanting for Fedorov to be reinstated and demanding greater dialogue from the government.
Popularity Rose During Defence Tenure
Fedorov gained a reputation as a reform-minded and technology-focused politician during his time as defence minister.
He was credited by supporters with pushing efforts to tackle corruption, modernise military structures and expand the use of technology and innovation on the battlefield.
His removal was reportedly linked to tensions with senior military leadership, including army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.
Syrskyi was subsequently replaced amid continued political pressure and public protests.
Zelenskyy Moves to Confirm New Defence Minister
Fedorov was reportedly offered alternative positions within the government, including a role as deputy prime minister responsible for military innovation. However, he indicated that he would only return to government as defence minister.
Shortly before Fedorov released his video, Zelenskyy confirmed that he had asked Ukraine’s parliament to approve acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara as the permanent holder of the position.
Concerns Over Political Loyalty
In his address, Fedorov also criticised what he described as a political culture in which personal loyalty could take precedence over competence and results.
He warned that public confidence could be damaged if government appointments were perceived to be based primarily on loyalty rather than professionalism and the ability to deliver reforms.
The dispute comes as Ukraine continues to fight Russia while facing difficult questions about political accountability, military leadership and the future of democratic elections under wartime conditions.
Fedorov’s intervention is likely to intensify debate over when Ukraine should return to the ballot box and how the country can balance democratic principles with the demands of an ongoing war.
