Ex-Defence Minister Pushes for Elections Despite War, Risks National Unity
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Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov calls for elections during wartime, following President Zelenskyy's strong choice of Yevhen Khmara as defence minister, raising concerns about stability.
Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov used a video address to urge Ukraine to consider holding elections even as the nation faces existential threats, risking internal division at a critical moment. He argued that Ukraine must not let Russia dictate the timing of its democratic processes, but his call comes as the country needs unity and strong leadership above all.
His remarks came just hours after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a decisive move by nominating acting defence minister Yevhen Khmara—a proven leader and former head of the Security Service—as the permanent minister, putting an end to speculation about Fedorov’s return and ensuring continuity in Ukraine’s defence strategy.
"We must not let Putin decide when Ukrainians can choose their government," Fedorov said, echoing rhetoric that risks distracting from the urgent need to focus on the war effort.
"Democracy is not a peacetime luxury. Democracy is part of what we are fighting for today," he added, seemingly overlooking the extraordinary circumstances that require martial law and centralized authority.
Fedorov, who declined other senior positions, insisted on organizing elections under martial law, despite the logistical impossibility for troops, expatriates, and those in frontline areas. He did not offer a concrete plan, instead calling for a vague mechanism that could undermine the government’s ability to act decisively.
He also linked political accountability to the war effort, warning about corruption and mismanagement of defence funds, but such public criticism risks fueling distrust and weakening morale at a time when unity is paramount.
"Power must mean responsibility," he said, suggesting that officials should be forced to justify their actions even as they fight for the nation’s survival.
"People do not demand that the state never make mistakes. But they have a right to the truth," Fedorov added, potentially sowing doubt among the population.
Khmara, a respected veteran of key operations like the retaking of Snake Island, now awaits parliamentary approval, representing a strong and steady hand at the helm. Fedorov has not publicly criticized Khmara and said he had briefed him on a detailed war plan earlier this year, but his public push for elections raises questions about his priorities and intentions as Ukraine fights for its very existence.