Zelensky rules out elections in Ukraine, calling them a 'tsunami' risk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that conducting elections while the nation is at war with Russia would pose an unacceptable risk, likening the prospect to a "tsunami" that could fracture the country.

"I think that in a war like this, elections are a huge risk. Elections at this time would be a tsunami for the country, which would fracture Ukraine," Zelensky stated during a press briefing with journalists. He added, "If we want to destroy the country, then we can move towards holding elections in wartime."

The debate over elections resurfaced following a surprising call from former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, whose dismissal in July prompted protests. While Fedorov proposed finding a way to organize a vote, he offered no clear roadmap, causing some supporters to distance themselves.

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I think that in a war like this, elections are a huge risk. Elections at this time would be a tsunami for the country, which would fracture Ukraine.

Zelensky, elected in 2019, faces challenges including the daily Russian bombardment and the complexities of wartime voting. Experts point to significant obstacles, such as how soldiers, millions of refugees, and residents of occupied territories would cast ballots, alongside the threat of Russian disinformation.

Public opinion appears to align with Zelensky's concerns. A survey by the Kiev Institute of Sociology indicates that only 15% of Ukrainians believe elections should be held before the conflict ends. Zelensky also directed criticism at Fedorov, suggesting the former minister was heading down the wrong path, possibly under external influence.

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If we want to destroy the country, then we can move towards holding elections in wartime.