Zelenskyy: A Ceasefire is a Prerequisite for Any Ukrainian Elections.

Zelenskyy's Statement on Ukrainian Elections

According to TSN.ua: In an interview with Sky News, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that elections in Ukraine can only be held if Russia agrees to a ceasefire. He emphasized that holding a vote under martial law is not feasible, and there are no plans to organize one in the coming months.

“I believe it is impossible,” the President remarked.

“We need security.”

Context and Ruslan Stefanchuk's Perspective

Zelenskyy also expressed the view that elections are currently a greater priority for the United States and Russia than for Ukraine itself. Regarding the potential for holding a vote, he added:

“I don't know. It depends on the circumstances.”

Separately, Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, commented on the election issue, stating that parliament is developing legislation for post-war elections. This indicates that, despite the lack of immediate plans, preparations are underway for a potential return to normal political life once the conflict ends. The ongoing legislative work shows a forward-looking approach to rebuilding democratic institutions after the war.

The statements from both President Zelenskyy and Chairman Stefanchuk highlight that the question of elections in Ukraine remains complex and pressing under martial law. The absence of security and stability severely complicates the implementation of democratic processes, while the preparatory legislative initiatives demonstrate a readiness to restore political life in the future, contingent on developments on the battlefield.