Holding Elections in Wartime Ukraine: Feasibility and Necessary Reforms.

Can Ukraine Hold Elections During the War? Examining the Challenges and Required Changes

According to TSN.ua: This analysis explores the feasibility of organizing elections in Ukraine under martial law, discusses potential legislative amendments, and raises the question of holding a referendum concurrently with elections. Key considerations include security, international obligations, and possible voting mechanisms.

On December 22, 2025, Ruslan Stefanchuk signed an order to establish a special working group tasked with investigating the issue of holding elections. Two days later, on December 24, 2025, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that following the signing of a peace agreement with Russia, Ukraine must hold presidential elections 'as soon as possible.' First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Oleksandr Korniienko, directed all subgroups to submit their findings by January 30, 2026.

According to estimates, the cost of conducting nationwide elections could exceed 10 billion hryvnias. On January 24, 2026, David Arakhamia and Ruslan Stefanchuk commented on potential scenarios for elections and a referendum. However, by January 8, 2026, participants in the working group had concluded that holding elections while martial law remains in effect is impossible.

Yuliia Kyrychenko, an expert in this field, noted: 'Conducting elections under martial law is impossible.'

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also emphasized that 'without a ceasefire, the electoral process is impossible.' This context raises the question of initiating a referendum. As Yuliia Kyrychenko pointed out, 'the people can initiate a referendum if three million citizens support it.' The specific questions that could be put to a referendum require detailed discussion, and it is also necessary to determine who will be responsible for their preparation.

The Difficulties of Organizing Wartime Elections

Overall, preparing for elections in Ukraine during the war is a complex task requiring significant effort and discussion at all levels. Currently, no clear model or mechanism exists to ensure election security under martial law conditions. Experts propose various solutions, including:

• the possibility of online voting
• postal voting
• in-person voting at polling stations
• voting abroad

However, these questions remain open for further debate. Thus, the issue of holding elections in Ukraine during the war remains pertinent and demands a serious approach from the state and society. Defining the conditions for elections, their legitimacy, and security are the primary aspects requiring attention in the context of an ongoing military conflict. The debate occurs against the backdrop of a full-scale invasion, where democratic processes must be balanced with national survival.

Organizing elections in wartime Ukraine presents numerous challenges, particularly concerning security, legitimacy, and international recognition. While authorities continue to seek solutions, it is crucial to consider public opinion and potential mechanisms that could be implemented to ensure a democratic process. In the conditions of a protracted war affecting all spheres of life, elections become not only a political question but also a vital element of the country's stability and recovery. The path forward will test the resilience of Ukraine's democratic institutions.