Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's recently dismissed defense minister, has called for a wartime presidential election in a direct challenge to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In a video address released Tuesday evening, Fedorov said Ukraine must "restore a full democratic process even amid a prolonged war."
Fedorov's sacking last month sparked widespread protests. Ukraine has maintained martial law since Russia's February 2022 invasion, suspending elections during the conflict. His call represents the most significant political challenge to Zelenskyy's leadership since the full-scale invasion began.