Ukraine's former defence minister calls for presidential election
Dismissed Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for a wartime presidential election, presenting the most direct political challenge to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy since Russia's 2022 invasion. Elections are suspended under martial law, while Fedorov's removal last month prompted protests, according to four outlets. His call followed weeks of political unrest.
Why it matters
The demand opens a difficult debate over elections, legitimacy and security while the country remains at war.
Sources
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Part of the August 19, 2026 brief.