Mykhailo Fedorov, the recently dismissed Ukrainian defense minister, has publicly stated that President Volodymyr Zelensky should be questioned regarding his awareness of corruption within the government. Fedorov, who gained prominence for his efforts to modernize the military and lead the development of drone warfare, was removed from his post last month following reports of a disagreement with the head of the armed forces.
Speaking on the matter, Fedorov pointed to a money laundering investigation launched last week as a primary reason for seeking greater transparency from the president regarding his inner circle. Despite these concerns, the former minister clarified that he has never personally witnessed the president participating in any illicit activities. He noted, “In all the time that I worked with him, not a single time have I received from him any task or assignment that would go against law or my sense of integrity.”
Beyond the corruption allegations, the 35-year-old former official has reignited the debate over holding elections during the ongoing conflict. Although he stopped short of announcing his own political future, he emphasized that “democracy should not be the hostage of Putin.” He argued that initiating a discussion on the electoral process is his “moral right,” asserting that if the country fails to hold elections, “then we are no longer a democracy.”
Ukraine has operated under martial law since the full-scale Russian invasion began in 2022, which has effectively suspended the electoral cycle. President Zelensky’s official five-year term concluded in May 2024. While Fedorov’s call for a vote has faced widespread rejection, he maintains that open discourse is essential to the nation’s identity. “We should not be afraid of discussing it. That’s what democracy is all about. If I cannot share my ideas and be open about them with my own society, then what are we fighting for?” he asked.
Fedorov’s departure from office sparked protests, though public demonstrations subsided by Wednesday following the confirmation of his successor. Reflecting on his tenure, the former minister admitted he does not miss the position, citing the immense pressure of managing the defense ministry while navigating a high-stakes war with Russia. The report also notes that but he said he had not himself seen the president engage in any corrupt activity.
