Fedorov Urges Zelensky to Address Corruption After Dismissal

Sun Sep 06 2026 00:33:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Former Ukrainian defence minister Fedorov demands that president Zelensky explain potential corruption links in his inner circle following his sacking earlier this month.

Fedorov, known for modernising Ukraine’s army and pioneering drone warfare, was fired last month over a clash with the chief of armed forces. In a BBC interview he called for the president to answer questions about corruption within his government, citing a recent money‑laundering probe that implicated lawmakers and bankers. While denying that he had seen the president act illegally, Fedorov argues that transparency is essential for Ukraine’s democratic future. He also urged the launch of wartime elections to signal that Ukraine remains a democracy, even under martial law.

Fedorov Urges Zelensky to Address Corruption After Dismissal

The former defence minister of Ukraine, known for turning the army into a "drone‑powered" force, was dismissed from his post last month after a disagreement with the head of the armed forces. During a BBC interview he criticised the President for not defending himself in front of a money‑laundering investigation that targeted lawmakers and bankers.

Fedorov said he had never witnessed any corrupt acts from the President, yet he insists that the leader must answer whether he knew about possible corruption in his inner circle. He described the situation as a demand for openness, arguing that a democratic society must be able to question its leadership.

The former minister also pressed for the institution of wartime elections, saying that the absence of a vote would mean Ukraine no longer had a democratic identity. He added that while elections are legally suspended by martial law, the moral imperative for transparency remains.

In addition to the political debate, Fedorov highlighted bureaucracy in the UK and other allies that slowed the supply of weapons. He praised British support but called for a shift to direct funding of Ukrainian drone production as the most practical approach for saving lives on the front line.

The controversy surrounding Fedorov’s dismissal and his call for elections continues to split public opinion. While protests erupted following his sacking, the movement waned after the appointment of his successor. The broader question remains whether Ukraine can keep its democratic footing while fighting an ongoing war.