Holding elections during wartime hinges on security, and a ceasefire is needed inside Ukraine at least for the duration of voting, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot decide when or how elections in Ukraine will take place, Zelensky said in a statement.
Zelensky stressed that the Ukrainian state can ensure free and transparent elections, with foreign observers able to verify the legitimacy of the process.
At the same time, he acknowledged potential logistical complications because many Ukrainian citizens are currently abroad, including questions around suitable facilities. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has already begun organizing overseas voting, he said, adding that he hopes many Ukrainians will return home to vote when security conditions allow.
Zelensky voiced skepticism about holding voting for Ukrainians in Russia and in territories temporarily occupied by Russia, saying he doubts genuine results would match “drawn” figures.
He said elections during the war depend on two factors: security and legislation.
“Those who are not in Ukraine can come if it’s safe, or vote abroad, as I said. It’s important that our military, who defend the state, can vote. Every citizen has an absolute right to this,” Zelensky said.
He added that U.S. partners have raised security issues and understand how to help Kyiv ensure safe elections.
“This may primarily be a ceasefire, or the end of the war, or at minimum a ceasefire during the elections,” he said.
Earlier, Zelensky instructed lawmakers to draft a bill enabling elections under martial law. Among the changes under consideration are multi-day voting and a 60-day campaign period during wartime, mirroring the timeline for early presidential elections.
