Photo: Screenshot from the video
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for Ukraine to begin developing a legal and safe mechanism to restore the electoral process without waiting for the end of the war with Russia.
In an address to Ukrainians published on August 18, Fedorov argued that if the war continues for several more years, Russia should not effectively be given the power to determine when Ukrainians can elect their government.
“If the war lasts another year, two or three, can Russia effectively be given the right to decide when Ukrainians can elect their government again? I believe not. Democracy cannot be a hostage to Russia,” Fedorov said.
Fedorov calls for a realistic election mechanism
Fedorov acknowledged that holding elections during wartime would involve major challenges, including ensuring voting rights for Ukrainian troops, millions of citizens living abroad and residents of frontline areas.
He also stressed the need to guarantee election security, independent institutions and public confidence in the results.
However, the former minister said the complexity of the task should not mean Ukraine abandons the effort to find a solution.
Fedorov described elections as one of the key mechanisms for ensuring government accountability to society.
“Elections are not just a ballot. They are the moment when the authorities return to the citizen and say: ‘Here is what we have done. Now you decide whether you trust us to continue,’” he said.
He added that Ukraine should not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to determine when Ukrainians are allowed to choose their government.
Fedorov and the government
Following his resignation, Fedorov said he did not intend to become part of the political opposition to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the war.
Zelenskyy reportedly offered him several positions, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but Fedorov declined positions other than a ministerial post, arguing that they would not give him sufficient authority.
On August 18, however, Zelenskyy submitted Yevhenii Khmara’s candidacy to parliament for the position of defense minister. According to media reports, Khmara is prepared to leave military service to take the post, and parliament is expected to vote on his appointment.
