Ukraine's ex-defence minister calls for wartime elections

Fedorov, Ukraine's recently dismissed defense minister, has called for wartime presidential elections to address what he describes as a governance crisis and rampant wartime corruption, arguing that democracy should not be hostage to Russia. He envisions a legal, safe mechanism to hold elections during extended conflict that would protect voting rights for military personnel, Ukrainians abroad, and frontline residents, while demanding greater government accountability. The proposal challenges current law, which prohibits elections during wartime, and comes amid ongoing protests after his removal and a turbulent political landscape. The move coincides with Zelensky's nomination of acting Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara to a permanent role, a decision that has been closely watched as lawmakers prepare for a potential vote. The debate has an international dimension, with the US president Donald Trump having previously urged Ukraine to hold elections, underscoring broader geopolitical stakes. Analysts remain divided on feasibility and security implications, though Fedorov frames the push as essential to preserving democracy in the face of Russian aggression.