Kremlin cites ousted minister's election call as proof of Kyiv divisions

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is planning a trip to the United States to raise funds for new defense technology projects and startups, according to a source close to the former minister. This initiative follows his dismissal from the defense ministry in July, which had previously sparked protests calling for his reinstatement. Fedorov recently broke with President Volodymyr Zelensky by becoming the first prominent Ukrainian political figure to publicly call for wartime elections, a move prohibited by the country's constitution. He stated that democracy is integral to Ukraine's fight and that Russia should not dictate the timing of elections. The Kremlin has seized upon Fedorov's call as evidence of internal divisions within Ukraine's leadership. The source denied reports that Fedorov's U.S. trip was aimed at seeking political support for his election proposal, emphasizing his focus on technological ventures. Fedorov, known for his advocacy of new military technologies and drone warfare, maintains close relationships with U.S. companies such as SpaceX and Palantir, whose Starlink services have been vital for Ukrainian battlefield communications and drone operations.