Former Ukrainian defence minister demands wartime presidential election

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine's recently dismissed defence minister, has called for presidential elections during the war. He posted a YouTube video on Tuesday, August 18, making this demand. Fedorov was removed from his post in late July, after about six months in the role. His departure followed reported tensions with army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. In the video, Fedorov argued that Ukraine must find a legal way to restore democracy. He said, "Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia." He did not name President Zelenskyy or announce any political plans. Ukrainian law currently bans elections while martial law is in place. On the same day, Zelenskyy nominated Yevhen Khmara as the new permanent defence minister. Parliament was expected to vote on the appointment the following day.