Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently stated that if security can be ensured, Ukraine could hold elections in 60 to 90 days. This response counters claims from former U.S. President Donald Trump that Zelensky is using the war to maintain his power.
Zelensky has expressed that while he’s ready for elections, the ongoing conflict complicates matters. “How can we vote under missile attacks?” he questioned, emphasizing the need for security. He called for support from the U.S. and allies to ensure a safe environment for elections.
Zelensky gained significant popularity after the Russian invasion in February 2022. Surveys showed 90% of Ukrainians trusted him at that time. However, during the ongoing war, his approval ratings have stabilized, though they are lower than in 2022.
Currently, Ukraine is under martial law, which means elections can’t happen for now. This law was put in place to combat the Russian offensive and has been extended continually. Officials say elections will occur once the war concludes and international standards can be maintained.
Analysts have mixed views on the feasibility of elections at this time. Some fear it could lead to chaos, a situation Russia might exploit. Others, like Olha Aivazovska from the Opora Civil Network, argue that holding elections is essential for Ukraine’s legitimacy and survival.
“The situation is delicate,” says Aivazovska. Without legitimacy, she warns, Ukraine risks becoming a failed state. However, pressing forward with elections amid conflict presents logistical hurdles. With over 5.9 million Ukrainians displaced and significant damage to election infrastructure, organizing a fair election will be a tall order.
“The system for elections is not ready due to the war,” notes Serhiy Dubovyk, deputy head of Ukraine’s electoral commission. Only 75% of polling stations are operational, and with nearly 1 million individuals serving in the military, ensuring safe voting poses serious challenges.
Moreover, many citizens feel the priority should remain on the war, rather than elections. Among them is a pensioner named Roman, who posed the question, “How will soldiers vote from the front lines?” He believes elections should wait until after the conflict ends.
In a recent survey, citizens echoed this sentiment. A young bookshop employee, Lana, mentioned, “Elections can only occur after martial law and victory.”
With parts of Ukraine still occupied and consistent attacks disrupting daily life, moving forward with elections seems increasingly unlikely. Major cities face power outages, impacting the ability to conduct even basic civic processes.
As the country navigates these challenging times, the focus remains on achieving security and stability, ensuring that when elections do occur, they reflect the true will of the people.
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