Ukraine’s dismissed defence minister pushes for wartime elections

Mykhailo Fedorov, cut from the defence ministry last month, released a YouTube video demanding that Ukraine hold elections even if it means fighting on two fronts. He argued that democracy cannot be hostage to a foreign power and urged a safe, legal system to return full democratic processes to Ukraine during the war.

The video came after protests in Kiev that called for Fedorov’s reinstatement. Tens of thousands have gathered outside the parliament chanting for democratic renewal, signalling widening public discontent over the top‑tier administration. Zelensky has not officially replied, but his team has said that organising a vote under continuous Russian bombardment is unrealistic.

Fedorov previously led a reform push within the defence ministry, spearheading anti‑corruption drives and high‑tech solutions such as drone and cyber warfare systems. He blamed corruption for leaving soldiers short on equipment and argued the ministry’s performance had suffered due to loyalty politics rather than merit.

Analysts note the collision of political ambitions and wartime exigencies. Some soldiers point to the difficulty of voting for military personnel, while others fear that campaigning would weaken unity and give Russians propaganda fodder. Hundreds of Ukrainian refugees abroad also cannot be counted in a fair poll, adding to the logistical nightmare.

Fedorov’s call has reframed the debate around governance: a debate that was once about military tactics now touches on the political legitimacy of the presidency. The fallout from his dismissal, his public criticisms, and the ensuing protests underscore an uneasy balance between fighting a war and securing democratic resilience.