Sacked Ukrainian defence minister calls for wartime presidential election

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, in a video posted on Tuesday, called for finding a way to hold elections even as the war with Russia continues. The 35-year-old argued that democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia, adding that Ukraine is fighting precisely to remain a free, European nation.

Since Russia's 2022 invasion, Ukraine has operated under martial law, under which elections are suspended. Fedorov did not name Zelensky directly in his statement, but the call is widely viewed as the most serious challenge to the president's authority since the war began.

An unexpected dismissal

Fedorov was unexpectedly removed from his post as defence minister in late July, only six months after taking office. His removal triggered protests across the country. It is widely believed the dismissal stemmed from tension between Fedorov and armed forces commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, who was himself replaced weeks later following sustained public pressure.

In his video, Fedorov gave no hint of his own political ambitions, instead stressing the need for a legal, safe and realistic mechanism to restore full democratic processes even during a prolonged war. He also warned of a systemic governance crisis and a national reluctance to embrace change, citing corruption as a factor undermining the war effort.

Zelensky has since appointed Yevgeniy Khmara, a low-profile career intelligence officer, as acting defence minister. Fedorov was offered other roles, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but has said he would only return to government as defence minister.

Known for digital-era initiatives

Fedorov previously served as digital transformation minister and, after the full-scale invasion began, set up a volunteer "IT Army," as well as leading a successful fundraising drive called the Army of Drones. As defence minister he continued to prioritise drones and high-tech warfare, including appealing to Elon Musk to restrict Russia's access to Starlink satellites for drone strikes.