Discussions about elections in Ukraine have amplified in recent months despite martial law prohibiting them. Zelensky, who was elected in 2019 for five years, came under fire from U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently accused the Ukrainian leader of not wanting to hold elections. “I am focusing on security today and not in 20 years time. I don’t plan to be in power for 10 years,” Zelensky told the forum. Ukraine has repeatedly said that it won’t hold elections until the war is over, in line with martial law, as Russia constantly bombards the country and occupies one-fifth of its territory.
With Trump amping up peace negotiations with Russia this month, many expect an election to follow shortly after a ceasefire is agreed. These constraints have not stopped Trump from repeating Russian propaganda points and accusing Zelensky of being “a dictator.” Ukrainian NGOs mentioned that organizing an election during a war is “impossible,” as elections must be preceded by a stable ceasefire backed by security guarantees and proper preparations for the election process, including restoring relevant infrastructure. Zelensky’s administration pledged to hold elections “immediately” after the end of the war, thus allowing soldiers and refugees to safely take part in the vote, as well.
“I just want a dialogue with President Trump. I think that’s fair. I’m not signing off on something that future Ukrainian generations will have to pay back for the next 10 generations,” Zelensky said. “But ‘peace through strength’ means focusing that strength against Russia. This, I think, is the essence of the phrase. I want him on our side — I don’t think simple mediation is enough. We need security guarantees from the United States,” Zelensky said, also expressing gratitude for bipartisan support for Ukraine in Congress.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine needs long-lasting security, saying that even if Trump can deter Putin now, he will not always be there.” [Trump] is not forever, and we need peace for many, many years,” Zelensky said.
