Former Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Mykhailo Fedorov, emphasized the importance of holding elections in the country, stating that war should not become an excuse to prevent democracy.
Modern.az reports that Fedorov spoke about this in a video message published on his “YouTube” channel.
According to him, the state must ensure the participation of military personnel, millions of Ukrainians living abroad, as well as citizens living in frontline areas, in the voting.
“If the war continues for another one, two, or three years, can Russia actually gain the right to determine when Ukrainians can choose their government again? I am sure, no. Democracy cannot become a hostage of Russia. We are fighting precisely because we want to remain a free European state,” the former minister said.
Fedorov also emphasized that Ukraine cannot remain without a fully authorized Minister of Defense during wartime. He called for broader discussions on the future of the country and democracy.
The former minister also commented on the protests against his resignation, which have been ongoing for a month.
“People cannot live indefinitely in a state where they do not understand why decisions are made. Why do some reforms move forward, while others are blocked? Why do decisions necessary on the front today circulate in cabinets for months? It is especially dangerous if the society forms the opinion that the main criterion for a person's appointment to a position is not their professionalism, results, and ability to change the country, but their personal loyalty to the system,” Fedorov noted.
According to him, Ukraine must build a state where institutions are stronger than surnames, results are more important than political loyalty, and the fight against corruption is considered a guarantee of the country's future.
It should be noted that Mykhailo Fedorov announced on July 31 that he would not be in political opposition to President Volodymyr Zelensky during the war. However, he stated that he would not agree to return to the government, with the exception of the position of Minister of Defense.
