Ukraine President Dismisses Aide Amid Money Laundering Probe; Former Defense Minister Calls for Elections
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed a top aide, Iryna Mudra, amid a money-laundering probe. This comes as Ukraine's former defense minister, who was recently fired, called for national elections despite the ongoing war with Russia.

Philadelphia, PA, August 19, 2026 —
Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Iryna Mudra, a senior aide, who was reportedly involved in a money-laundering investigation. The dismissal was announced without further details regarding the specific allegations or the ongoing probe.
Mudra held a significant position within the presidential administration, and her departure comes at a sensitive time for the Ukrainian government. The specifics of the money-laundering probe have not been publicly disclosed.
In a related development, Ukraine’s former defense minister, who was recently removed from his post, has called for national elections to be held. This appeal is made despite the continued state of martial law due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The former minister’s call raises questions about the timing and feasibility of elections during wartime.
The Ukrainian constitution typically prohibits elections during a period of martial law. The former defense minister’s statement suggests a debate within Ukraine regarding democratic processes amidst the challenges of war and security concerns. Further details on the identity of the former defense minister and the precise nature of his call for elections were not provided in the summary.
The dual events highlight the complex internal political landscape of Ukraine as it navigates both domestic governance and a protracted war.
Story summarized from the original created by HANNA ARHIROVA and BARRY HATTON on www.inquirer.com, see more information here.