The campaign to replace Zelensky
Summary
This episode examines the political rift between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who is calling for wartime elections amid corruption allegations. BBC analyst Vitaly Shevchenko discusses the practical impossibility of voting during the conflict and the risks of Russian interference. The discussion also covers how external pressure from figures like Donald Trump influences Ukraine’s internal stability and Zelensky’s diplomatic responses.
Topics discussed
Intro: Zelensky faces challenge from former ally Fedorov
Guest intro: Vitaly Shevchenko on personal war impact
Mikhail Fedorov's rise as digital defense minister
Fedorov's dismissal and subsequent protests
Dismissal of Commander-in-Chief Sirsky
Fedorov calls for elections amid corruption claims
Ad break
Practical and security barriers to wartime elections
Trump's pressure and Zelensky's diplomatic response
Fedorov's US visit and potential political impact
Conclusion and credits
Listen ad-free on Castria