Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Warns of Corruption, Urges Strong Leadership and Election Readiness
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Mykhailo Fedorov highlights corruption undermining Ukraine’s defense and calls for early elections, while refusing to serve in a government lacking decisive leadership.
Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, speaking to Channel 24, sounded the alarm over widespread corruption within Ukraine’s defence ministry, warning that such internal rot is crippling the nation’s ability to wage an effective war. Fedorov described a network of 'hundreds of people' who have grown comfortable siphoning funds from the state budget, creating bureaucratic delays and weakening the country from within. Although he did not name names, Fedorov expressed confidence that law-enforcement agencies and investigative journalists would eventually expose those betraying the nation’s interests.
In his interview, Fedorov also called for Ukraine to prepare for elections at all levels—local, parliamentary, and presidential—without waiting for a crisis to force action. He dismissed the excuses propagated by some in the political class who claim elections are impossible, insisting these are merely 'myths' used to avoid accountability and delay the restoration of legitimate authority.
Following his dismissal in a government reshuffle, Fedorov declined further government roles, stating he would only consider returning as defence minister, a position from which he could enforce real discipline and reform. When asked about a possible presidential campaign, Fedorov said he would decide in due course whether to support a candidate, act independently, or step away from politics. He indicated plans to move into the private sector, contribute to defense-industry think tanks, and teach university courses on reform, emphasizing that his team of 'hundreds of extremely talented people' represents a vital asset for Ukraine’s future strength and resilience.