Zelenskyy rejects elections during war, citing risks of division

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected the notion of holding national elections while the country remains under martial law and engaged in a full-scale war with Russia. He described the idea as unrealistic and potentially damaging, stating that elections during wartime would "divide Ukraine."

"I think if we want to destroy the country, then during such a war, we can go ahead with the elections," Zelenskyy remarked during a meeting with journalists, according to The Guardian. He elaborated that holding elections under the current circumstances carries "very big risks" and would amount to a "tsunami for the state" that would fracture the nation. Zelenskyy's primary objective, he reiterated, is to end the war and preserve Ukraine's independence.

“

I think if we want to destroy the country, then during such a war, we can go ahead with the elections.

Elections have been suspended in Ukraine since the imposition of martial law following Russia's full-scale invasion. Zelenskyy's five-year term officially ended in May 2024, but significant pressure for elections during wartime has only recently emerged, notably from former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who was dismissed by Zelenskyy a month prior. This call for elections is seen as one of the most open challenges to Zelenskyy's authority from within Ukraine since the invasion began.

“

I think, during such a war, elections are generally very big risks. Elections now would be a tsunami for the state, which would divide Ukraine.

Zelenskyy stated that he would support elections if Ukraine's allies could establish "specific conditions" ensuring they are conducted safely, legitimately, and democratically. These conditions would need to accommodate the participation of soldiers on the front lines, millions of Ukrainian citizens living abroad, and ensure the voting process is free from "strikes and shelling."

He also addressed the dismissal of Fedorov, suggesting the former minister overstepped his authority by attempting to assume responsibilities belonging to the military. Zelenskyy mentioned that Fedorov had been offered four other government positions, all of which he declined. The President also warned that Russia is amassing a stockpile of approximately 600-630 high-speed ballistic missiles and aims to produce over 100 more monthly, particularly in anticipation of winter.

“

If Ukraine's allies establish specific conditions under which elections can be held safely, legitimately, and democratically, I would support them.