Sacked Ukrainian defence minister calls for presidential election
Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has publicly called for wartime elections, citing a need to restore democratic processes despite the ongoing conflict. His call follows his recent dismissal and highlights growing internal political friction within the Zelensky administration.
Why it matters
This represents a significant internal political challenge to President Zelensky's leadership during a critical phase of the war with Russia.
Image source, Reuters By Tabby Wilson Published 14 minutes ago Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for wartime elections, in what many see as the biggest challenge to Volodymyr Zelensky's presidency since war broke out with Russia in February 2022.
"Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia," said Fedorov, 35, in a video posted to YouTube on Tuesday, adding that Ukraine is fighting "precisely because we want to remain a free European state".
Since Russia's invasion Ukraine has been under martial law, which means elections are suspended.
Fedorov, who did not mention Zelensky by name in the video, was unexpectedly fired from his role as defence minister in late July, just six months after his appointment.
His dismissal sparked protests across the country .
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