In response to journalists' questions, Zelensky noted: "This is the first time I hear about plans to announce elections on February 24. I learned this from the Financial Times, and now I hear it from you." He added that discussions about elections are taking place when there are security guarantees, emphasizing: "We are ready for elections, but the security situation is the main obstacle." According to him, allies are raising the issue of elections, not the Ukrainian side. "If there is a ceasefire, elections can be held," he added.
Speaking about possible dates for elections and a referendum, Zelensky noted that his delegation is ready to work with any proposals that come from American partners. However, he emphasized that an understanding of a ceasefire is necessary for holding a referendum, as it is structurally similar to elections.
In addition, the President of Ukraine assured that the U.S. does not threaten Kyiv with the cancellation of security guarantees and does not link them to the issue of elections, as previously reported by the Financial Times.
According to Ukrainian legislation, holding elections, including presidential ones, is prohibited under martial law. Due to the ongoing hostilities, elections for the Verkhovna Rada, scheduled for 2023, as well as presidential elections planned for 2024, have not been held.
Amid peace negotiations, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that it is time to organize presidential elections in Ukraine. In response, Zelensky said he is ready to hold elections within 60-90 days if security is ensured by the U.S. and Europe.
He also proposed to establish a ceasefire regime during the presidential elections in the country. Vladimir Putin, for his part, expressed readiness to consider the possibility of not striking Ukraine on election day.
