Fedorov Says Corruption Prevents Ukraine’s Victory

Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated that systemic corruption involving “hundreds of people” is preventing the country from ending the war from a position of strength. In an interview with 24 Kanal, Fedorov claimed that numerous individuals who have built corrupt schemes and pursued personal interests are holding back the adoption of effective decisions.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official. He stated that he encountered and dismantled such schemes during his tenure at the Defense Ministry, but faced resistance from networks allegedly supported by law enforcement officers. Fedorov declined to name specific individuals, asserting that Ukrainians will eventually learn their identities through law enforcement recordings, journalistic investigations, and other avenues. He emphasized that the issue involves hundreds of people accustomed to profiting from the state budget, rather than just a few senior officials. When asked about his current relationship with President Volodymyr Zelensky, Fedorov noted that they had not spoken for several weeks. Potential political run and wartime elections Fedorov’s comments follow recent reports that he is considering running for president or participating in future elections if they are held in Ukraine. On Aug. 18, the former minister released a video address calling for Ukraine to find a legal and safe mechanism to restore its democratic processes despite the prolonged war, arguing that Russia should not dictate when Ukrainians can vote. Other Topics of Interest Russian Drone Strikes Private Home in Kharkiv, Injuring 8 A Russian “Shahed” drone struck a residential area in Kharkiv’s Osnovyanskyi district early Sunday morning, Aug. 23, injuring at least eight people and sparking fires. Under current martial law, national elections are prohibited in Ukraine. Experts have highlighted significant logistical hurdles to wartime voting, including the participation of frontline soldiers, millions of refugees, and citizens in occupied territories. Fedorov was ousted from his position on July 15 as part of a broader Cabinet reshuffle, a move that triggered nationwide protests calling for his reinstatement. Parliament appointed Yevhen Khmara as his permanent replacement on Aug. 19. Since his dismissal, Fedorov has rejected alternative government roles, stating he would only accept a return to the Defense Ministry. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization, reporting since 1995. Its international reach – 97% of readers are outside of Ukraine – make it truly Ukraine’s global voice.