Zelensky says wartime elections could damage Ukraine

Kyiv’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, denounced a proposal put forward by Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, describing it as a “tsunami” that would “split” Ukraine. The criticism was voiced during a press briefing on Thursday, where Zelenskyy warned that the plan – which calls for a sweeping overhaul of the nation’s digital infrastructure and the creation of a parallel administrative framework – could undermine the country’s territorial integrity amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Fedorov’s initiative, outlined in a recent government white paper, aims to establish a comprehensive digital platform for public services, including a nationwide e‑identity system and decentralized data hubs intended to function independently of the war‑affected regions. Supporters argue the scheme would modernize governance and maintain service delivery despite frontline disruptions. However, Zelenskyy contended that the approach risks creating a bifurcated state, potentially fragmenting authority between digitally enabled zones and areas still reliant on traditional structures, and could exacerbate internal divisions at a critical juncture.

The president’s rebuke underscores the delicate balance Ukrainian leaders must strike between embracing technological reforms and preserving national unity. As the debate continues, officials are expected to refine the proposal to address concerns over cohesion while pursuing digital resilience in the war‑torn nation.