Zelensky Says Ukraine Is Ready for Elections if International Partners Can Ensure Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the country is prepared to hold national elections if its international partners, including the United States, can help guarantee sufficient security for voters. His comments came after former US President Donald Trump repeated claims that Kyiv was using the war with Russia as a reason to avoid going to the polls.

Zelensky’s five year presidential term was originally set to end in May 2024, but nationwide elections have been suspended under martial law since the full scale Russian invasion began. Ukraine’s constitution does not allow elections to take place during martial law, leaving the government to focus on wartime administration while the conflict continues.

Speaking to reporters after Trump’s remarks were published in a wide ranging Politico interview, Zelensky pushed back at suggestions that his government was unwilling to hold elections. He said he would request formal proposals from lawmakers and legal experts outlining potential changes to existing legislation that could allow voting to proceed under wartime conditions.

Zelensky said elections could be organised within 60 to 90 days if Ukraine’s partners are able to provide the necessary resources and security measures. That, he said, would include protecting polling stations from Russian attacks, ensuring safe transportation for voters and election officials and supporting monitoring mechanisms to uphold democratic standards. He stressed that the safety of citizens must come first, and that the vote must be free, fair and credible.

Ukraine’s leader also noted that the frontline situation remains volatile, with repeated missile strikes and drone attacks across various regions. Under such conditions, he said, independent voting is impossible without significant external assistance. International observers have echoed similar concerns, pointing out that millions of Ukrainians remain displaced and many regions face constant risks from Russian military activity.

Despite these challenges, Zelensky said Ukraine remains committed to democracy even under extraordinary circumstances. He emphasised that Ukrainians have consistently shown support for democratic institutions and that any future election must reflect the will of the people, not the conditions imposed by the war.

Western allies have previously signaled cautious support for potential elections, but many have also raised concerns about voter safety, logistical complications and the possibility of Russian interference. Security specialists say the risks would be high unless there is substantial international coordination and investment in protective measures.

For now, Zelensky’s comments appear aimed at demonstrating transparency and readiness while countering criticism from abroad. As Ukraine continues to fight on multiple fronts, the debate over elections has become intertwined with wider questions about governance, legitimacy and the country’s long term political resilience.