Key facts
- Ousted Ukrainian defense chief Mykhailo Fedorov has called for wartime presidential elections.
- Fedorov stated Ukraine must restore a full democratic process amid the ongoing war.
- Ukraine's constitution prohibits elections while martial law is in effect.
- Fedorov was dismissed in a government reshuffle and his removal triggered protests.
- Recent polling suggests Fedorov could reach the second round of a presidential election.
Ousted Ukrainian defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov has issued a direct political challenge to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy by calling for wartime presidential elections. Fedorov, who was removed from his post in late July, stated in a video address that Ukraine must "restore a full democratic process even amid a prolonged war" and that democracy "cannot be held hostage by Russia."
Fedorov implied that the current leadership was not professional and that decisions were made based on personal loyalty rather than merit, arguing that Ukraine could simultaneously fight a war and hold national polls. Elections have been suspended in Ukraine since martial law was imposed in February 2022, and Zelenskyy's term officially ended in May 2024, though holding elections during wartime has been a sensitive issue.
Fedorov's dismissal followed a falling out with military commander Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi, and his removal triggered protests. Zelenskyy has since nominated Yevhen Khmara as the acting defense minister. Polling suggests Fedorov would place third in the first round of a presidential election, behind Zelenskyy and former armed forces head Valerii Zaluzhnyi, but could defeat Zelenskyy in a run-off. Holding elections would present significant logistical challenges, including the displacement of millions of Ukrainians and the ongoing conflict on the front lines.