🔗 Share this article

The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared he is willing to conduct a presidential election amid the ongoing war, provided that Ukraine's parliament and foreign partners approve. This comment comes after accusations from the U.S. President that he was holding onto his position.

Clearly frustrated by the remarks from overseas, Zelenskyy stressed that "This is a matter for the population of Ukraine, rather than for individuals from partner countries, with all due respect to our friends."

However, he vowed to explore options for holding a election in the coming months. "Because this question is currently being posed by the President of the U.S., our ally, I will answer briefly: look, I am ready for elections," Zelenskyy said on Tuesday night.

"Moreover, I am asking ... the U.S. to support me, potentially alongside EU counterparts, to provide security for the elections, and subsequently within the next 60 to 90 days Ukraine will be able to hold the elections. I personally have the desire and preparedness for this," he continued.

The U.S. President's Criticism and The Country's Constitutional Situation

This criticism were voiced by Trump in a wide-ranging interview published by Politico earlier on Tuesday. "They have not held an election in a long time," stated the American leader. "Understand, they speak of a democratic nation, but it becomes a situation where it's undemocratic any more."

Zelenskyy's five-year term officially ended in May of last year, but the nation's constitution forbids elections during armed conflict. Furthermore, his political opponents have often said that safety and practical factors prevent holding an election while the war continues.

"It would only cause harm," said a lawmaker from the Holos party. "Zelenskyy is the commander-in-chief, and the country is in a position where we lack that possibility, whatever issues we might have with him. It would only aid the adversary," he added.

Logistical and Legal Challenges

Zelenskyy pointed out two major problems that need solving: the practical issue of enabling military personnel, millions of internally displaced persons, and those living under occupation to cast ballots, and additionally, how to lawfully hold elections given that a state of war is in effect.

He sought guidance from partner nations on securing the elections, and from lawmakers on how to change the legislation to permit a vote. "{I am awaiting ideas from allies, I am waiting for proposals from our parliamentarians, and I am willing to go to the elections," said Zelenskyy.

Broader Political Context

Zelenskyy made these remarks while traveling back to Ukraine after concluding a round of talks to several EU nations. This comes as the U.S. administration has reportedly increasing pressure on Kyiv to agree to a peace deal.

Recently, Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., suggested at a conference that Zelenskyy was prolonging the war due to worries of losing power. He also indicated that his father might "withdraw support" from Ukraine if the war does not end. "{It's not correct. But it's not precisely wrong," said Trump, when questioned about his son's claim.

It has been suggested that the U.S. has suggested Ukraine should cede the Donbas region to achieve peace, a proposal that would be highly unpopular within Ukraine. Additionally, there is currently little indication that Russia is prepared to sign any agreement, even a deal that might seem advantageous to Moscow.