Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for wartime Elections, presenting what observers describe as the most significant challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s leadership since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
“Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia,” Fedorov, 35, said in a video posted to YouTube on Tuesday. He added that Ukraine is fighting “precisely because we want to remain a free European state.”
Ukraine has been under martial law since the invasion, which suspends electoral processes. Fedorov did not mention Zelensky by name in the recording. His appeal comes weeks after his unexpected dismissal as defence minister in late July, just six months after his appointment. Zelensky has not publicly responded to the video, which triggered protests across the country.
During his tenure, Fedorov was credited with revitalising the ministry, leading an anti-corruption drive, and introducing data-driven analysis to improve front-line performance. His removal is widely attributed to tensions with the then commander-in-chief of the armed forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi. Syrskyi was himself replaced several weeks later following sustained public pressure on the presidency.
In the video, Fedorov did not outline personal political ambitions. Instead, he emphasised the need for a “legal, safe, and realistic mechanism that will allow Ukraine to restore a full democratic process even amidst a prolonged war.” He warned of a “systemic crisis of governance” and said the country is “scared of change,” identifying corruption as a critical obstacle to the war effort.
Zelensky has since appointed Yevgeniy Khmara, a career intelligence official with a low political profile, as acting defence minister. Other government positions, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, were offered to Fedorov, but he has stated he would only consider returning as defence minister.
