Ukraine: Zelensky asks for more Patriot interceptors as civilian deaths hit highest level since 2022

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed calls for wartime elections, warning that they could "split" the nation. This came after his former defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, proposed organizing a vote amid Russia's ongoing invasion. Zelensky believes that holding elections in the midst of war would present a significant risk to Ukraine's unity.

He stated, "Elections right now are a tsunami for the country that will split Ukraine." Currently, Ukraine has suspended elections under martial law, a measure that remains popular among the population as the country concentrates on combating Russian forces.

Zelensky held a briefing with journalists on Saturday, the first in months, amid political turmoil. The latest crisis began when Zelensky fired his defense minister, sparking protests and attracting supporters from both ends of the political spectrum. Fedorov had suggested a path to conduct an election but didn't provide a clear plan, leading to dissent even among his backers.

Experts have pointed out numerous challenges, including the voting process for soldiers, refugees from occupied territories, and the threat of Russian disinformation.

A recent poll by the Kyiv Institute of Sociology revealed that only 15% of Ukrainians support holding elections before the end of hostilities. Zelensky criticized Fedorov, suggesting that he or his backers were heading in the wrong direction. The former minister had advocated for reforms but clashed with military command, resulting in the removal of the commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky.

Zelensky urged people to have the right to protest but cautioned against disrespectful attitudes towards military personnel. He emphasized the importance of unity, stating, "I believe that society and soldiers must not be divided." Zelensky acknowledged the risks associated with the potential shift toward dangerous developments.