The head of the Ukrainian presidential office, Kyrylo Budanov, has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of conducting presidential elections in Ukraine under current conditions. In response to inquiries about the possibility of elections following a 60-day ceasefire, Budanov stated that discussing elections at this time is futile.
Budanov emphasized that his primary focus is on establishing an effective negotiation process rather than on electoral matters. His comments come as the topic of elections has resurfaced amid concerns regarding the state of democracy in Ukraine, particularly following remarks from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
In light of these developments, President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated his willingness to hold presidential elections, provided certain conditions are met. He has called for a ceasefire to be in place during the electoral process, highlighting the challenges of conducting elections during wartime.
Russia has claimed it would ensure a lack of hostilities only on the day of voting, raising questions about the reliability of such assurances. Additionally, for elections to be held amidst the ongoing conflict, legislative changes are necessary. A specialized group, including members of parliament and other stakeholders, is currently working on these legal adjustments.
Zelensky has previously mentioned that he might seek a second term if the war with Russia is still ongoing at the time of the elections. This statement underscores the complex interplay between the ongoing conflict and the democratic processes in Ukraine.
Kyrylo Budanov has dismissed the likelihood of presidential elections in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict, focusing instead on negotiations. President Zelensky has expressed conditional support for elections, contingent on a ceasefire, while legislative changes are needed to facilitate the process.