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Zelenskyy Open to Elections in Ukraine with Security Guarantees from Allies

Credited from: REUTERS

  • Zelenskyy ready for elections in 60-90 days if security is guaranteed.
  • Current martial law prohibits elections; public support against voting during war.
  • Trump's comments add pressure on Ukraine's leadership regarding election legitimacy.
  • Logistical challenges and safety concerns for voters remain significant issues.
  • Political analysts suggest complex legislative changes are needed to facilitate elections.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed openness to holding elections within the next 60 to 90 days, provided that the US and European allies can guarantee security for the vote. "I am ready for elections," Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing the necessity of security supports such as weapons and air defense in light of the ongoing war with Russia. Elections are prohibited under current martial law, which has been enforced since February 2022 following the full-scale invasion by Russia, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.

Amid pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has criticized the absence of elections in Ukraine, Zelenskyy indicated his willingness to hold discussions with parliament regarding legal avenues for conducting elections. Trump's remarks suggested that Ukraine is "using war" as a pretext to avoid elections, leading to fears that Zelenskyy's leadership is viewed as illegitimate, a narrative propagated by Russia. Zelenskyy stressed that a lawful framework must be established for elections to take place under martial law, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Despite the potential timeframe set by Zelenskyy, logistical and security challenges remain formidable. Over four million Ukrainians are displaced, and the country's energy infrastructure is under constant threat from Russian attacks, complicating the organization of polling stations both locally and among the diaspora in Europe. Political analysts assert that a comprehensive legislative and logistical groundwork would be essential for conducting a fair election, which could take much longer than initially suggested, according to India Times and Reuters.

Polls indicate that a significant majority of Ukrainians oppose holding elections during the ongoing conflict, viewing the need for peace over political processes. The risks associated with security for voters and the complexities of relocating polling stations and registering displaced individuals are major concerns. Zelenskyy does face diminishing popularity due to recent corruption allegations, but remains a leading figure, with Valeriy Zaluzhnyi potentially posing a challenge if he decides to enter the political arena, according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

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