Sacking turns former Zelenskyy loyalist into potent political opponent

Mykhailo Fedorov’s blistering critique comes at a time of growing pressure for democratic renewal in Ukraine

Sacking turns former Zelenskyy loyalist into potent political opponent

TL;DR

  • Demonstrators are protesting outside President Zelenskyy's office, supporting recently sacked Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
  • Fedorov released a video criticizing Zelenskyy's administration, citing a "systemic crisis of governance" and corruption that affects the war effort.
  • He called for wartime elections and democratic renewal, stating that democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia.
  • Fedorov's critique suggests his attempts to root out corruption in procurement led to his dismissal.
  • Civil society activists largely agree with Fedorov's assessment of systemic corruption and issues with governance in Ukraine.
  • The article notes that while elections are constitutionally barred during wartime, pressure for democratic renewal is increasing.
  • Zelenskyy recently fired his deputy chief of staff amid an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering.