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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared Tuesday he is prepared to hold elections within 60-90 days if the United States and European allies can help ensure security for the poll, directly addressing criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump about his extended time in office.
“I am now asking—and I am stating this openly—for the United States, possibly together with our European colleagues, to help me ensure security for holding elections,” Zelenskyy told reporters via WhatsApp. “And then, within the next 60–90 days, Ukraine will be ready to hold them.”
The statement marks a significant shift in Zelenskyy’s position. Until now, he has declined to hold elections while martial law remains in effect due to Russia’s full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. His five-year presidential term formally expired in May 2024, but Ukraine’s constitution allows him to legitimately remain in office until a newly elected president is sworn in.
The issue has emerged as a point of tension with Trump, who recently told Politico, “They’re using war not to hold an election, but, I would think the Ukrainian people… should have that choice.” Trump added: “They talk about a democracy, but it gets to a point where it’s not a democracy anymore.”
Zelenskyy forcefully rejected suggestions that he is clinging to power or using the war as an excuse to remain in office. “I’ve heard it suggested that we’re clinging to power, or that I’m personally holding on to the president’s seat, that I’m clinging to it, and that this is supposedly why the war is not ending. This, frankly, is a completely absurd story,” he said.
The practical challenges of holding elections amid the ongoing conflict are substantial. Ukrainian law specifically prohibits elections during martial law. Beyond the legal barriers, security concerns are paramount as Russia continues to bombard Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones. Approximately one-fifth of Ukraine’s territory remains under Russian occupation, and millions of citizens have been displaced abroad, creating enormous logistical obstacles to organizing a nationwide ballot.
Additionally, finding a way for Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines to cast their votes presents another complex challenge. These considerations have led most Ukrainians to support the postponement of elections until a ceasefire is in place.
Political analysts note that Zelenskyy’s new willingness to consider elections could be seen as an effort to address concerns from the incoming Trump administration, which has signaled a desire to push for an end to the conflict. Trump has previously criticized U.S. support for Ukraine and suggested he would quickly negotiate a peace deal if elected, raising concerns in Kyiv about potential concessions to Moscow.
Security experts point out that Trump’s comments echo Moscow’s stance, as the Kremlin has attempted to use Zelenskyy’s extended term to cast him as an illegitimate leader. This narrative aligns with broader Russian disinformation efforts to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty and Western support for Kyiv.
The political landscape in Ukraine offers few immediate challengers to Zelenskyy. Former army chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi, currently serving as the Ukrainian ambassador to Britain, has been identified in public opinion surveys as a potential rival, though he has denied plans to enter politics. Former President Petro Poroshenko, who leads the largest opposition party, is seen as unlikely to run again but could significantly influence the race by supporting a particular candidate.
Zelenskyy indicated that if the U.S. and other allies can guarantee election security, he would ask lawmakers to propose legal changes allowing elections to proceed under martial law. This would require amending current legislation that specifically bars elections during wartime conditions.
The issue highlights the complex balancing act facing Ukraine’s leadership—maintaining democratic processes while defending against Russian aggression, and navigating changing political winds in Washington that could significantly impact the country’s future.
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8 Comments
Kudos to Zelenskyy for acknowledging the need for elections, even amidst the immense challenges posed by the Russian invasion. Securing the process with international support will be critical to preserving Ukraine’s democracy.
Trump’s comments raise a valid point about the need for elections, but the security situation makes it extremely difficult to organize a fair poll. Zelenskyy’s proposal to hold elections in 60-90 days with international help seems reasonable given the circumstances.
Ukraine’s democratic institutions are under immense strain due to the Russian invasion. Zelenskyy’s willingness to hold elections with international assistance is commendable, but the practical realities will be daunting.
Maintaining democratic legitimacy during wartime is a delicate balance. Zelenskyy’s openness to elections is a positive step, but the logistics and security concerns will be complex to navigate. Let’s hope the international community can assist in finding a workable solution.
Holding elections in an active war zone is extremely risky. I appreciate Zelenskyy’s commitment to democracy, but the safety of voters has to be the top priority. Proper security measures will be crucial if these elections are to be free and fair.
Ukraine’s constitution allows Zelenskyy to remain in office, but it’s understandable that there are calls for elections to give the people a voice. Securing the process will be the key challenge – I hope the US and allies can provide the necessary support.
Interesting to hear Zelenskyy is open to holding elections with security assistance from the US and allies. This would be an important step for Ukrainian democracy, though the logistics and timeline will be challenging given the ongoing conflict.
It’s a difficult balancing act – upholding democratic principles while also ensuring voter safety in an active war zone. I hope the US and allies can work with Ukraine to find a solution that gives the people a voice without compromising security.