Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Kyiv is open to holding elections, but only under conditions of guaranteed security. The president emphasized that without a safe environment, it would be impossible for the Ukrainian people to participate in democratic, open, and legal elections.
Zelenskyy’s remarks were made as part of a broader discussion on a potential peace deal with Russia, with international leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump taking part in diplomatic efforts. The Ukrainian president also welcomed the idea of a trilateral meeting with Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling it a “very good signal” and a necessary step to find a path to end the war.
The Ukrainian constitution prohibits elections during a state of martial law, which has been in effect since the full-scale invasion. Zelenskyy’s comments underscore the complexity of balancing democratic principles with the realities of a nation at war. Any move toward elections would require a significant shift in the security situation and legal framework.
Sources:
The Associated Press (AP): https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-zelenskyy-russia-ukraine-war-d0ad768453210db23fe4b108f7b87135
Anadolu Agency: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/russia-ukraine-war/zelenskyy-says-ukraine-open-to-elections-seeks-security-guarantees-from-us/3662901
