Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that parliamentary and presidential elections could take place this year, provided negotiations bring an end to the “active phase” of the war with Russia, enabling the lifting of martial law.
In an interview broadcast on Ukrainian television on January 2, Zelensky stated that the long-postponed elections would depend on Ukraine’s situation following any agreements to end the conflict and expel Russian occupying forces.
“Regarding 2025, if we manage to end the active phase of the war for Ukraine, achieve this alongside a strong military, a significant package of armaments, and robust security guarantees, then [the elections] can be held,” Zelensky said.
“Afterward, in principle, we can consider lifting martial law in Ukraine. Once that happens, the ball will be in Parliament’s court to set an election date. I don’t think we need to wait years [for elections] once martial law is lifted,” he added.
Zelensky’s five-year term is set to end on May 20, 2024. However, the 46-year-old president did not confirm whether he would seek another term. “If I manage to do more than what’s possible, then perhaps I would make this decision with greater positivity. Today, this is not my goal,” he emphasized.
The presidential election, initially scheduled for March or April 2024, was postponed due to the ongoing war. Under Ukraine’s Constitution, Zelensky must continue fulfilling his presidential duties until a new leader is elected. Similarly, parliamentary elections scheduled for October 29, 2023, were also delayed because of martial law.
Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. The country’s Parliament has extended martial law 13 times in 90-day intervals. For elections to be held during this state, lawmakers would need to amend the law.
Analysts and politicians have raised concerns about security, voter displacement, and infrastructure challenges, which pose significant obstacles to conducting legitimate elections under current conditions. While Russia has questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy due to the election delays, the European Union has expressed no doubts about his status as Ukraine’s leader. The United Nations has also reaffirmed its support, stating that Zelensky “remains…the person with whom the Secretary-General communicates when contact with Ukraine’s leader is required.”
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