Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mikhail Fedorov has called for elections to resume despite the continuing conflict with Russia, increasing political pressure on Vladimir Zelensky following Fedorov’s contentious removal from office last month.
In a video address, Fedorov argued that Ukraine needs a lawful and practical way to restore the democratic process, warning of a wider crisis in governance and criticising corruption, opaque decision-making and appointments based on political loyalty.
His dismissal on July 14 prompted public demonstrations, while subsequent upheaval also saw military commander Aleksandr Syrsky removed. Fedorov’s intervention has fuelled speculation that he could eventually challenge Zelensky for the presidency, particularly after recent polling reportedly showed the former minister and other prominent Ukrainian figures enjoying stronger public approval.
Zelensky, whose original presidential term ended in May 2024, has maintained that elections cannot be held while martial law remains in force. The dispute comes against a backdrop of corruption controversies that have damaged the government, including previous attempts to restrict anti-corruption agencies and an alleged energy-sector kickback scheme involving figures close to Zelensky.
BREAKING: Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for restoring elections even during a prolonged war, saying Ukraine must find a “legal, safe and realistic mechanism” to resume the democratic process.
He argued that “democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia”… pic.twitter.com/gb19llnI6R
— Clash Report (@clashreport) August 18, 2026
Are yes. A politicians view on democracy.
1. Create a war by breaking the long held agreement, Ukraine will never join NATO.
2. Negotiate with Russia.
3. Russia said it didn’t want NATO on its borders, missile moved closer to Russia. That would create too small a marjin for error.
4. Go to war with Russia with the backing of NATO supplied wepons and technology. I.e. drones.
5. Combined all of parliament as one government until the war is over.
6. Send our sons, brothers and fathers and now it seems daughters to die.
7. Make the leader of Ukraine a billionaire.
8. Claim we don’t need elections because we are at war and all politicians are working in government.
This is the politicians view on democracy. No voting allowed until the war is over.
Democracy is not being held hostage in Ukraine by Russia, it is being held hostage by the Ukrainian Rada (aka “government”).
Russia is holding elections soon, Syria held elections during their war (if it can be described as such). Ukraine is not holding elections because the people who have seized control of the country are stealing so much money. They don’t want either the war, or the money stealing to stop.
He’ll be eliminated.
No one mess with the juice.