Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces mounting pressure to conduct elections during wartime, despite constitutional restrictions preventing such actions under martial law. Mykhailo Fedorov, a former defense minister and a significant figure who was ousted from his government position, has urged for the implementation of a legal and feasible mechanism to uphold Ukraine’s democratic processes amidst ongoing conflict with Russia since February 2022.
Although the timing for elections remains uncertain due to the ongoing war, political dynamics necessitate Zelenskyy to address the demands for change, whether elections are imminent or not. Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former Ukrainian government official, highlighted that Fedorov’s advocacy for elections has sparked domestic political discussions but has not expedited their likelihood in the near future. There is a possibility that Zelenskyy may announce plans for future elections, either post-war or under wartime conditions, in response to sustained public pressure.
Fedorov, known for his reformist stance and technological acumen within Zelenskyy’s administration, had previously championed the use of drone warfare against Russia. Despite his dismissal in July, which triggered widespread protests in Ukraine, Fedorov refused alternative government positions, insisting on the defense minister role he held. Zelenskyy appointed Yevhenii Khmara as the new defense minister, formalized by Ukrainian lawmakers recently.
The feasibility of holding elections amidst the current conflict is a subject of debate. Dmytro Koziatynskyi, a combat medic and protest advocate, expressed doubts about the practicality of enabling voting for servicemen stationed at the frontlines. Lesia Bidochko, a policy fellow, echoed these concerns, suggesting that Fedorov’s election push may be more of a populist gesture without a clear implementation strategy. The complexity of organizing elections is further compounded by the substantial refugee population, internal displacement, and military service in Ukraine.
While the call for wartime elections persists, some experts caution against the risks associated with such a move. Orysia Lutsevych from Chatham House believes that rushing into elections during wartime could jeopardize national unity and be exploited by Moscow for further interference. Zelenskyy’s response to Fedorov’s election plea remains pending, with his communication adviser pointing to Russia’s ongoing aggression as a pressing concern. The debate over the legitimacy of Zelenskyy’s presidency and the demand for elections has drawn international attention, with Russia questioning Zelenskyy’s authority and former U.S. President Donald Trump advocating for timely elections.