Ukrainian former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov on Tuesday publicly demanded the holding of wartime elections, directly challenging President Volodymyr Zelensky in what multiple outlets describe as the most significant internal political challenge to his leadership since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Fedorov, who was dismissed from his post in late July, released a nine-minute video address on YouTube stating that Ukraine must find a legal, safe and realistic mechanism to restore full democratic processes even during prolonged war. He argued that democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia, adding that the country is fighting to remain a free European state. Ukrainian law currently prohibits elections under martial law, which has been in effect since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Zelensky has not publicly responded to Fedorov’s video. Earlier on Tuesday, Zelensky’s office confirmed the appointment of Yevhen Khmara as acting defence minister, effectively closing the door on Fedorov’s return to the ministry.
Political fallout and public reaction
Fedorov’s dismissal on 22 July — six months after his appointment — followed a public dispute with army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi over military strategy and frontline performance. Protests erupted across Ukraine, with thousands of demonstrators in Kyiv and other cities calling for Syrskyi’s removal and Fedorov’s reinstatement. Syrskyi was subsequently replaced in late July under sustained public pressure.
During his tenure, Fedorov was credited with modernising the defence ministry, spearheading anti-corruption initiatives and expanding Ukraine’s drone warfare capabilities, which increased deep-strike capacity into Russian territory. He has stated he would only return to government as defence minister.
Legal and procedural obstacles
Ukraine’s constitution and electoral laws suspend elections during martial law, citing security risks. Zelensky has repeatedly stated that elections can only be held once a ceasefire is agreed and adequate security guarantees are in place. Fedorov did not propose a specific legal pathway in his address but reiterated the need for a mechanism to enable democratic renewal amid war.
Public opinion and political implications
While Fedorov did not declare his candidacy, a recent poll cited by several outlets indicated he would lead Zelensky in a hypothetical presidential runoff. The protests over his dismissal have continued for weeks, though with diminishing turnout in some cities. Fedorov’s allies describe the demonstrations as evidence of broad public support for democratic values and reform.
Fedorov’s call for elections comes amid broader debates over governance, military leadership and corruption in Ukraine, with critics arguing that wartime restrictions have delayed necessary reforms and concentrated power in the executive branch.