Ukraine’s first deputy parliamentary speaker, Oleksandr Korniienko, has stated that a minimum of 60 days of complete ceasefire is essential for the preparation and conduct of elections in the country. This assertion comes in response to suggestions from Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a one-day ceasefire.
Korniienko emphasized that conducting elections under ongoing military actions is not feasible. “Elections cannot be held under artillery fire or drone attacks. This is understood by both parliament and our negotiation group,” he remarked during an interview with Ukrinform.
He elaborated that the legislative framework for elections in Ukraine currently allows for two types of timelines: 90 days for regular elections and 60 days for early elections. Korniienko noted that the 60-day period proposed by President Zelensky is the minimum necessary for a secure environment, stating, “We cannot consider partial measures; it simply does not work that way.”
Additionally, Korniienko pointed out the need for adequate time to prepare the necessary legal framework for conducting elections during or after martial law. He stated that the ongoing security situation also influences parliamentary operations and legislative processes.
As for the possibility of holding a referendum, Korniienko indicated that while it might also fit within a 60-day timeframe, additional time would be required to gather the necessary signatures for its initiation.
He reiterated that the current legal regime of martial law does not permit elections, underscoring the challenges faced by the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, in determining the feasibility of elections during this period.
Latest Updates on Elections in Ukraine
According to previous reports, initial proposals regarding the potential for elections in Ukraine are expected to be presented in February. Korniienko acknowledged that the issue of which territories may participate in elections remains complex.
He also outlined the tasks assigned to the working group preparing for the elections, which has been divided into seven thematic subgroups, six of which have already commenced their work.
President Zelensky has expressed concerns that Russia aims to conduct elections in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict to undermine his administration.
Ukraine's parliamentary leadership has asserted that a minimum of 60 days of ceasefire is necessary for the safe conduct of elections, rejecting proposals for shorter timelines. The ongoing martial law complicates the electoral process, with significant legislative preparations required before any elections can take place.