Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing increased pressure to conduct wartime elections, despite constitutional restrictions due to martial law. The call for elections comes from Mykhailo Fedorov, a former defense minister known for his popularity and youth, who was recently removed from his government position.
Fedorov emphasizes the need for Ukraine to establish a legal and safe mechanism for resuming the democratic process during the ongoing conflict with Russia. While the feasibility of holding elections during the current wartime situation is questioned by some observers, the political implications of the demand for change cannot be overlooked by Zelenskyy.
Former government minister Tymofiy Mylovanov acknowledges Fedorov’s efforts in making elections a significant domestic political issue but suggests that the likelihood of immediate elections remains uncertain. He speculates that continuous pressure from protests could prompt Zelenskyy to outline a plan for future elections, either post-war or under wartime conditions.
Fedorov, known for his reformist approach and expertise in technology, was ousted as defense minister following his vocal support for drone warfare against Russia. Despite declining alternative government positions, Fedorov insisted on his role in defense, leading to his dismissal and subsequent replacement by Yevhenii Khmara.
However, the practicality of holding elections amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia raises concerns among experts. Dmytro Koziatynskyi, a combat medic, questions the logistical challenges of enabling voting for frontline service personnel. Lesia Bidochko, a policy fellow, views Fedorov’s election call as a populist move without a clear implementation strategy.
The possibility of conducting elections is further disputed by Ukrainian lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko, who highlights the constitutional hurdles and the complexity of orchestrating such changes during martial law. Zelenskyy’s response to Fedorov’s election proposal remains pending, with his communications advisor emphasizing the ongoing security threats posed by Russia as a priority.
Notably, the push for wartime elections is seen as a risky move that could weaken national unity and be exploited by Moscow, according to Orysia Lutsevych from Chatham House. Russia has challenged Zelenskyy’s legitimacy, citing the expiration of his term in May 2024, while former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized the delay in holding elections, advocating for prompt electoral processes.