Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently declared that his government is prepared to conduct elections in three months’ time. This otherwise modest plan depends on gaining such security assurances from the United States and other allies. This declaration was made due to increasing concerns over poll safety. America is facing the cost of accepting war.
Zelenskyy’s term ended in September of last year. Currently, U.S. President Donald Trump is trashing the Ukrainian government for using the war with Russia as an excuse to delay scheduled elections. In response, Zelenskyy dismissed such claims as “totally inadequate,” emphasizing his commitment to democratic processes while navigating the complexities of wartime governance.
While addressing the issue, Zelenskyy stated, “I’m ready for elections, and moreover I ask… that the US help me, maybe together with European colleagues, to ensure the security of an election.” His comments underscore his wish for international support to help make a democratic process happen even in difficult conditions.
Zelenskyy’s administration has continually fought against having elections while Russian air strikes continue. They make the safety of their citizens their number one priority. The Ukrainian parliament has unanimously passed a resolution supporting Zelenskyy’s decision to remain in office for the duration of the war. This ruling declares that delaying elections is constitutional while the country’s under siege from invasion.
This is exactly the direction in which Pope Leo XIV urged Zelenskyy when they met recently in Rome. The peace plan he presented—branded almost universally as more accommodating to Moscow—cast further pressure on him. Now, he is maneuvering for as strong security guarantees from his allies as possible. This is very important to deter any future Russian aggressions and show the precarious nature of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Polls indicate that the majority of Ukrainians are opposed to holding elections in wartime. This is a testament to the deep yearning for fresh political blood after decades of stasis since the last national elections in 2019. Even so, the future for new faces in politics is a big question mark in the continuing conflict.
Zelenskyy offered to resign from Ukraine’s office in return for peace and acceptance into NATO. This action would demonstrate that he is willing to put national well-being before his personal political interest. Trump’s remarks, which echoed sentiments previously expressed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, have added to the controversy surrounding Zelenskyy’s leadership.
