Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly ruled out the possibility of holding elections in Russian-occupied regions, citing the inability to ensure a democratic process while under foreign control.
Why It Matters
The question of elections in Ukraine has become a focal point in international discourse, particularly as the war stretches into its third year. While Ukraine faces pressure to demonstrate its democratic resilience, the logistical and legal realities of martial law make standard voting procedures nearly impossible. Zelenskyy’s comments directly address narratives—some echoed by U.S. political figures—that criticize Kyiv for postponing elections, clarifying that any vote held under Russian occupation would lack legitimacy and transparency.
What to Know
During a joint press briefing in Kyiv with Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, President Zelenskyy stated unequivocally that elections cannot be conducted in territories currently outside of Ukrainian government control. He emphasized that Russia’s method of governance precludes fair voting, noting that Moscow typically decides the outcome before ballots are even cast.
“Elections cannot be held in territories not controlled by Ukraine, which are temporarily occupied,” Zelenskyy said. “It is clear how they would be conducted — the way Russia always does it. It first announces the result, even in its own domestic elections, and only then counts the votes.”
The President highlighted two primary obstacles to holding national elections: security and legislation. While legislative adjustments during wartime are theoretically feasible, the physical safety of voters and election workers remains the overriding concern. Under Ukraine’s current constitution, elections are explicitly banned while martial law is in effect.
This stance comes amidst ongoing hostilities, with Ukraine recently battling a new Russian incursion in the Sumy region, further underscoring the volatility of the security situation.
What People Are Saying
The issue of Ukraine’s suspended electoral cycle has drawn comment from high-profile international figures. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has previously made harsh statements suggesting that the absence of elections indicates Ukraine has lost its democratic status. These claims mirror narratives frequently promoted by the Kremlin, which frames the war as a convenient excuse for Kyiv to delay voting.
However, Zelenskyy’s administration maintains that the delay is purely a matter of survival and legality. As reported by the Times of Israel, Zelenskyy reiterated that fair elections are impossible without first re-establishing control over the land and ensuring the safety of the populace.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered a counter-narrative, claiming he would “consider” providing security guarantees for a potential vote. However, Putin simultaneously set conditions regarding the participation of residents in the temporarily occupied territories, a stipulation Kyiv views as a non-starter for a legitimate democratic process.
What Happens Next
President Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine is technically prepared to organize elections, but only once hostilities cease or credible security guarantees are established. He estimated that under the right conditions, organizing a vote could take between 60 and 90 days.
Currently, the President is awaiting proposals from the Verkhovna Rada regarding possible legislative changes to address the constitutional ban on wartime elections. Until the security situation stabilizes and legislative hurdles are cleared, the prospect of presidential or parliamentary elections remains on hold. Regular local elections, originally scheduled for late October, have already been bypassed due to the ongoing threat of shelling and the displacement of millions of voters.
