Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed strong concerns about holding an election during the ongoing conflict with Russia, warning that such a move would be detrimental and divisive for the nation. The remarks come following former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov’s call for a wartime poll, which sparked controversy in the country.
Zelenskyy emphasized that conducting elections amid wartime conditions could have severe consequences, potentially leading to the country’s disintegration. Ukrainian law prohibits elections during times of conflict, citing security risks and the challenges faced by millions of Ukrainians affected by the war.
Despite calls for fresh faces in politics, a recent poll indicated that a majority of Ukrainians prefer delaying elections until the hostilities cease. Zelenskyy suggested that the possibility of a wartime election would require assurances of security from international partners, a condition that has not been proposed so far.
The rift between Zelenskyy and Fedorov, who was recently dismissed, has added complexity to the political landscape. While acknowledging Fedorov’s contributions to modernizing Ukraine’s armed forces, Zelenskyy highlighted their differences and the need to focus on ending the conflict and safeguarding the country’s independence.
The Ukrainian president also addressed a controversial encounter with former U.S. President Donald Trump, citing inaccurate information from the Defense Ministry regarding the use of Starlink technology in Russia. Zelenskyy recounted a misunderstanding that led to accusations of deception, underscoring the need for accurate information in decision-making processes.
Overall, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of unity and strategic planning to navigate the challenges facing Ukraine, urging a concerted effort to end the war and uphold the country’s sovereignty.