"I believe that in a conflict like this, organizing elections poses significant risks," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on 23/8. "An election at this time is nothing short of a tsunami that would split Ukraine in two. If we want to destroy the country, we can hold a vote during wartime."

Zelensky made this statement to reject calls for presidential elections during wartime, which were put forth by former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov. In a video released on 18/8, Fedorov suggested that holding elections, even while the conflict is ongoing, is a way for Ukraine to "restore a full democratic process."

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at a press conference in Belgrade, Serbia on 8/8. *Photo: AFP*

This move is seen as a challenge to the authority of President Zelensky, who was elected in May 2019 and whose 5-year term would theoretically end in May 2024.

The presidential election, originally planned for March-April 2024, was postponed under martial law enacted when the conflict between Ukraine and Russia began in February 2022, and has since been extended multiple times.

During a press conference on 22/8, President Zelensky repeatedly criticized former minister Fedorov. "I think he was pushed into error by others or by himself," Zelensky said.

Zelensky stated that the people of Ukraine have the right to protest to show support for Fedorov, but warned against disrespecting soldiers.

"Since when have media stunts become more important than those who are sacrificing their lives?" Zelensky questioned. "I believe that public opinion and soldiers should not be divided. This risk currently exists and it leads to dangerous developments."

Protesters outside the Ukrainian parliament building in the capital Kiev on 19/8. *Photo: Reuters*

A day later, Fedorov responded in an interview with BBC, stating that President Zelensky "needs to answer many questions" regarding corruption allegations within his government. The former defense minister also suggested that the people of Ukraine should not fear discussing the idea of holding elections amidst the conflict.

However, Fedorov did not specify how to conduct a safe vote while fighting continues. Experts point out numerous obstacles, such as how Ukrainian soldiers, millions of refugees, and residents in Russian-controlled areas could vote, as well as the risk of Moscow's interference.

According to a recent poll by the Kiev Institute of Sociology, only 15% of respondents believe elections should be held before the conflict ends.

Former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov holds a press conference on 16/7 in Kiev, Ukraine. *Photo: AP*

Fedorov, 35 years old, was a close ally of President Zelensky and served as Minister of Digital Transformation before being moved to the Ministry of Defense. During his leadership of that agency, he advanced efforts to modernize the military, expanding the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and reforming the defense system.

After losing his position, Fedorov accused Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky of obstructing armed forces reform programs. Thousands of people later took to the streets in many cities, demanding Fedorov's reinstatement and General Syrsky's dismissal. President Zelensky subsequently dismissed General Syrsky but rejected Fedorov's request to return to the defense minister's post.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, Reuters)