Fedorov Says Ukraine Risks ‘Slowly Losing’ War Without Urgent Changes

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov cautioned that Ukraine risks gradually losing its war against Russia unless Kyiv takes immediate strategic and institutional changes, stating there is a critical turning point that will determine the country's future course. In an interview with Reuters published on Tuesday, Aug.

25, Fedorov expressed concern over the nation's trajectory, saying it appears as though Ukraine is "gradually, slowly losing" the conflict. This statement marks a significant shift from Kyiv's official wartime messaging, emerging amidst a public dispute between the former minister and President Volodymyr Zelensky following Fedorov's dismissal last month.

The presidential office refuted Fedorov's assessment, asserting he had previously praised the war's conduct during his tenure and that his current stance is a personal deviation. Fedorov also harshly criticized the Ukrainian state apparatus, alleging that entrenched corruption, patronage networks, and political interference have crippled institutional functionality, claiming the government operates at merely "5% effectiveness."

These remarks came amid growing tension with Zelensky, who vehemently rejected Fedorov's suggestion for wartime elections, arguing they could "destroy" Ukraine by creating political divisions during the ongoing conflict. Fedorov dismissed Zelensky's claim that external entities might be influencing his election push, asserting Ukraine could devise innovative solutions to navigate the logistical and security challenges inherent in conducting elections during wartime.

He remains uncertain about seeking the presidency himself but plans to focus his efforts on advocating for election restoration and advancing military technologies, including an investment fund, during an upcoming US trip.