Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky announced "substantive discussions" with members of parliament regarding the possibility of holding elections during martial law. Speaking in his nightly video address on 10/12, Zelensky emphasized the need to address all legal questions and doubts, particularly given specific statements from international partners, including the US, about elections in Ukraine. He stated Ukraine would not tolerate "any speculation against Ukraine."

Zelensky acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, stating, "We certainly do not want to be pressured" on the issue of organizing elections. He expressed his expectation for parliament members to present their views, noting that security challenges depend on partners, primarily the US, while Ukraine will handle political and legal hurdles.

Earlier this week, Zelensky had indicated his readiness to hold elections within 3 months, provided the US and other allies could guarantee voting security. His term is set to conclude in 5/2024, but Ukrainian law prohibits elections during martial law, which was imposed after the conflict began in early 2022.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in London, England on 8/12. Photo: AFP

The discussions follow comments from former US president Donald Trump, who, in an interview aired on 9/12, accused Ukraine of "taking advantage of the conflict" to avoid holding elections. Trump remarked, "They talk about democracy, but at some point, it's no longer a democracy."

The Kremlin has long asserted that Zelensky is no longer Ukraine's legitimate leader due to his expired term, deeming him unqualified for direct dialogue with President Vladimir Putin. In 8/, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov notably referred to Zelensky as "this figure" or "this man" rather than using his name or title.

By Huyen Le (Reuters)