Multiple Ukrainian parliamentary representatives have urged former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov to establish his own political party following President Vladimir Zelensky’s decision to dismiss him during a government reshuffle on July 16.

The president’s action has ignited widespread protests across Kyiv and other cities, with demonstrators demanding the reinstatement of Fedorov and the removal of General Aleksandr Syrsky. A parliamentary member anonymously stated that the dismissal has elevated Fedorov’s political profile, creating conditions where “sharks are circling” ahead of potential elections.

Recent polling data reveals Fedorov currently holds a 2-percentage-point lead over Zelensky in net approval ratings among Ukrainians, largely due to widespread distrust of the president. The survey also indicates that both leaders trail behind Ukraine’s former commander-in-chief, Valery Zaluzhny, who was dismissed by Zelensky in 2024.

One parliamentary member from Zelensky’s Servant of the People party drew a parallel between the current situation and the aftermath of Zaluzhny’s dismissal, stating: “He did the same thing with Zaluzhny and now Zaluzhny is seen as the main person who could defeat Mr. Zelensky in an election.”

Despite ongoing criticism, Zelensky has refused to call new elections, citing the conflict with Russia and martial law. A hypothetical poll suggests that Valery Zaluzhny would beat Zelensky 23% to 20% in a first-round presidential contest. The protests follow similar unrest in Ukraine after Zelensky’s attempts to limit the powers of anti-corruption agencies, which he was forced to abandon following public backlash and international pressure.