Zelensky Offers Election if Russia Agrees to Ceasefire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he is ready to hold national elections if Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire, responding to President Donald Trump’s call for Ukraine to choose a new leader.
Zelensky Offers Elections During 60-Day Ceasefire
Zelensky said elections could be organised if Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a two-month ceasefire long enough to allow voting to take place safely.
Ukraine has not held a presidential election during the war because martial law remains in force following Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Zelensky’s term formally expired in 2024, but Ukrainian law allows him to remain in office until an election can be conducted.
Trump Calls for New Ukrainian Leadership
Trump recently said it was “time for Ukraine to get a new president” and accused Zelensky of failing to reach a peace agreement with Russia.
He also argued that Kyiv had missed earlier opportunities for a settlement and renewed criticism of Ukraine’s strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.
Zelensky’s response directly challenges the suggestion that he is unwilling to face voters, while tying any election to a meaningful pause in fighting.
Ukraine Says Security Conditions Must Come First
Holding a nationwide election during active warfare would present major security and logistical difficulties, including voting by millions of displaced Ukrainians and citizens living abroad.
Zelensky has maintained that elections should take place once conditions allow Ukrainians to vote safely and freely.
The latest exchange comes as Washington pushes for de-escalation between Russia and Ukraine, including a proposed halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.
