Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed strong opposition to the idea of holding elections while the country is still engaged in conflict. In an interview with POLITICO, he highlighted that approximately 90% of Ukrainians are against the notion of elections under current conditions, citing safety concerns as the primary reason.
Zelenskyy emphasized that for elections to take place, a secure environment is essential, which necessitates a genuine and sustained ceasefire. He articulated the challenges of conducting elections amidst ongoing hostilities, questioning how soldiers defending the nation could participate in the voting process. Furthermore, he raised concerns about the eight million Ukrainians currently residing abroad and their ability to cast their votes.
The president underscored the need to first establish a stable security situation before considering the possibility of elections. He stated, “If we can hold elections, it will mean that we have a normal security situation. Perhaps not entirely normal, but as I mentioned, a ceasefire is crucial.” Zelenskyy also referenced the potential influence of international leaders, specifically mentioning former President Donald Trump, in facilitating a ceasefire that could allow for elections to occur.
President Zelenskyy has ruled out the possibility of holding elections in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict, citing safety concerns and the need for a ceasefire. He stated that a secure environment is essential for any electoral process, emphasizing the challenges faced by both soldiers and citizens abroad in participating in elections amidst war.
Source: RBK-Ukraine