Ukraine ‘ready for elections’, says Zelensky after Trump’s claims

New Delhi, Dec 10: Ukraine is prepared to hold elections if security can be ensured, President Volodymyr Zelensky said, responding to US President Donald Trump’s remarks accusing Kyiv of “using the war” to avoid voting, BBC reported. Zelensky’s term was due to end in May 2024, but elections have been suspended under martial law since Russia’s invasion. Speaking to reporters, he said he would seek proposals to amend the law and that polls could be held within 60–90 days if the US and European partners help guarantee safety.

He stressed that decisions on elections must be made by Ukrainians themselves and rejected claims that he was clinging to power, calling the narrative “completely unreasonable”. The BBC noted that major obstacles remain, including millions of displaced Ukrainians abroad, frontline soldiers unable to vote, and security concerns across the country. Opposition voices also questioned the idea, arguing wartime elections were impractical and potentially dangerous.

Most Ukrainians do not support holding elections during the conflict, according to recent polling cited by the BBC. Many fear that voting under current conditions could undermine legitimacy and play into Russia’s hands. Zelensky, currently touring Europe after US-led peace talks stalled, has ruled out surrendering territory and is urging allies to resist pressure for a deal that could leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attacks.