Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces mounting pressure to conduct elections during wartime, despite constitutional restrictions in place due to martial law. The call for elections comes from Mykhailo Fedorov, a former defense minister popular among the public, who was recently ousted from his position in the government.
Without specifying a timeline, Fedorov emphasizes the need for Ukraine to establish a lawful and feasible mechanism that would enable the country to restore its democratic processes amid the ongoing conflict with Russia that began in February 2022. While some argue that holding elections presently may not be practical given the wartime circumstances, the political implications of the demand for change present a challenge that Zelenskyy cannot overlook.
Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former Ukrainian government official, notes that Fedorov’s advocacy for elections has sparked significant domestic political discourse but does not necessarily hasten their occurrence. He suggests that continued public pressure may prompt Zelenskyy to outline a plan for future elections, whether post-war or under wartime conditions.
Before his dismissal, Fedorov, aged 35, was recognized as a reformist and technology-savvy member of Zelenskyy’s administration. He previously served as Ukraine’s digital transformation minister and advocated for the use of drone technology in combating Russian forces.
Fedorov was appointed defense minister in January but was removed from office in July, triggering widespread protests calling for his reinstatement. Despite declining alternative government roles, Fedorov insisted on his defense minister position, which Zelenskyy reassigned to Yevhenii Khmara, officially ratified by Ukrainian lawmakers.
Challenges surrounding the feasibility of holding elections during the ongoing conflict with Russia are underscored by Dmytro Koziatynskyi, a combat medic and protest organizer, who questions the logistical complexities of enabling voting for military personnel on the frontlines. Lesia Bidochko, a policy fellow, doubts the practicality of organizing elections with millions of Ukrainians displaced or serving in the military, suggesting Fedorov’s election call leans towards populism.
Ukrainian lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko deems discussions about elections currently unrealistic, citing the need for constitutional amendments, a complex process exacerbated by martial law conditions. While Zelenskyy has not directly responded to Fedorov’s election proposal, his communications adviser highlighted the ongoing Russian military actions as a deterrent to immediate electoral considerations.
Orysia Lutsevych from Chatham House warns that advocating for wartime elections poses significant risks, potentially dividing the nation and inviting interference from Moscow. Amidst international scrutiny, including criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Zelenskyy’s legitimacy and the call for elections, Ukraine navigates complex political dynamics amidst ongoing conflict.
