Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for the establishment of a legal mechanism to hold presidential elections during the ongoing war [1].
The demand marks a rare public challenge to the current governance structure in Kyiv. It highlights growing internal tension over how to maintain democratic legitimacy while the country remains under martial law and foreign invasion.
Fedorov delivered the call in a video address broadcast from Kyiv on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2024 [3]. The statement came hours after President Volodymyr Zelensky nominated Yevhen Khmara to replace him as defence minister [3].
Fedorov said Ukraine must find a "legal, safe, and realistic mechanism that will allow Ukraine to restore a full democratic process even amidst a prolonged war" [1]. He said the country is currently facing a systemic crisis of governance [2].
According to Fedorov, the democratic process should not be paused indefinitely due to the conflict. He said, "Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia" [4].
The former minister said that restoring the electoral process is essential to rebuilding public trust in the state's leadership [2]. He said the mechanism for such an election must be safe for participants, and legally sound to ensure the results are recognized both domestically and internationally [1].
Fedorov's dismissal and subsequent call for elections occur as the government continues to manage the defense of the country. The administration has previously cited security risks and the displacement of millions of citizens as primary obstacles to holding a fair and inclusive national vote.
“"Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia."”
This call for elections underscores a critical tension between wartime security and democratic accountability. While martial law allows for centralized command and rapid decision-making, the absence of fresh mandates can create perceived gaps in legitimacy. Fedorov's public stance suggests that some within the Ukrainian political establishment believe that democratic renewal is not just a post-war goal, but a necessary component of wartime resilience and public trust.
