Zelenskyy Open to Wartime Elections Amid U.S. Pressure
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses readiness to hold elections within three months, contingent on security support from the U.S. and European allies, following criticism from President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated his willingness to conduct elections within the next three months, provided that the United States and European partners can ensure the security of the process. This announcement comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent remarks questioning Ukraine's democratic practices during the ongoing conflict with Russia.
"I am ready for elections," Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday evening. "Moreover, I am asking the United States to help me, possibly together with European colleagues, to ensure security for the elections, and then in the next 60 to 90 days Ukraine will be ready to hold the elections. I personally have the will and readiness for this."
Under Ukrainian law, elections are prohibited during martial law, which has been in effect since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Zelenskyy's term was set to end in May 2024, but the war has necessitated the suspension of electoral processes. The president emphasized the need for external support to address logistical challenges, including the participation of soldiers, displaced citizens, and those in occupied territories.
Trump's comments, made in an interview with Politico, suggested that Ukraine's delay in holding elections undermines its democratic status. He stated, "They haven't had an election in a long time. You know, they talk about a democracy, but it gets to a point where it's not a democracy any more."
Zelenskyy responded by highlighting the complexities of organizing elections during wartime and called for assistance from international partners to facilitate a secure voting environment. He also requested proposals from Ukrainian lawmakers on how to amend existing laws to permit elections under current conditions.
The situation underscores the broader challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining democratic processes amid ongoing conflict and external pressures. The international community's role in supporting Ukraine's electoral integrity remains pivotal as the nation navigates these complex circumstances.
Source
The GuardianFact-checking
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