Ukraine's Former Defense Minister Fedorov Calls for Elections, Confirming Break With Zelensky

Mykhailo Fedorov, a young and widely popular political figure who was removed from his post as Ukraine's defense minister last month, has come out publicly in favor of holding elections in the country.

Fedorov stated that Russia should not be allowed to dictate when Ukrainians are able to choose their next government. The remark implies that the timing of any election should be a matter for Ukraine itself to decide, not something dictated by the country waging war against it.

A Break With Zelensky

Fedorov's statement is seen as cementing a break between him and President Volodymyr Zelensky. The fact that a recently dismissed minister is now speaking so openly in favor of elections points to a deeper political rift within Ukraine's leadership.

Fedorov, who lost his ministerial post just last month, continues to be described as a popular figure in Ukrainian politics. His open stance on the election question could be seen as a challenge to the current wartime leadership, given that the question of holding elections during the war has long been a contentious one in Ukraine.

The source report does not provide further details on Fedorov's future plans or a specific proposed election date.