Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he is ready to hold presidential elections within 60 to 90 days, provided the country receives the necessary security and legal guarantees. His remarks come shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Kyiv of using the ongoing war as an excuse to delay national elections. Zelenskyy firmly rejected this claim, stressing that Ukraine’s commitment to democracy remains unchanged despite the conflict.
Election Plans Depend on Secure Conditions
Speaking to journalists in Rome, Zelenskyy clarified that election-related issues were not part of his recent discussions with U.S. officials. He emphasized that decisions about Ukraine’s elections are the sole responsibility of Ukrainians. He dismissed suggestions that the government seeks political advantage, stating that the continuation of the war has nothing to do with who occupies the presidency.
Zelenskyy stressed that any election must be held under conditions that ensure voter safety. This includes protection from ongoing Russian attacks, proper legal adjustments, and systems that allow front-line soldiers to participate fully and transparently. He urged the United States and European partners to help create the environment necessary for conducting a wartime vote.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine could be ready to proceed with elections in two to three months once these support measures are secured. He added that he is prepared to run and has asked parliament to begin drafting legal changes that would authorize elections during wartime. He expects to review detailed proposals from lawmakers and international partners upon returning to Kyiv.
Peace Plan, Military Capabilities, and International Support
Zelenskyy also discussed Ukraine’s broader security agenda. He confirmed that Kyiv will submit its final peace plan to Washington. He noted that Ukraine has already deployed several long-range systems, including Neptunes, Palyanytsia, Flamingo, and Sapsan missiles.
Addressing the situation in Crimea, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Ukraine currently lacks the military capacity to retake the peninsula. He referenced earlier conversations with Trump, saying Ukraine still does not have enough support to achieve all of its goals on the battlefield.
Zelenskyy added that Ukraine is open to considering an “energy truce” with Russia, emphasizing that energy stability is vital for civilians. He also stressed that elements of the peace plan linked to Europe—such as frozen Russian assets and Ukraine’s EU membership path—must be endorsed by European partners.
Zelenskyy reiterated that once adequate security and political mechanisms are in place, Ukraine will be ready to hold elections within 60 to 90 days, reaffirming the government’s commitment to democratic processes even during wartime.
