Zelenskyy on Potential Elections: Our National Survival Must Come First

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he is open to discussions about elections in Ukraine, but emphasized that the majority of Ukrainians oppose holding them while the country remains under martial law.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy highlighted that his presidency has been marked by consecutive crises—first the COVID-19 pandemic and then the full-scale Russian invasion. He noted that Ukraine’s primary focus remains on national survival, and any discussions about elections must take into account the ongoing war.

“I am ready to talk about elections, but Ukrainians do not want them now,” Zelenskyy said. “They fear that lifting martial law would weaken our defense, demobilize soldiers, and create vulnerabilities that Russia could exploit.” He stressed that Ukraine is currently operating as a unified nation and that maintaining this cohesion is critical.

Under Ukrainian law, elections cannot be held during martial law, which remains in effect due to the ongoing war. Zelenskyy reiterated that lifting martial law prematurely could have serious consequences for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

“If we suspend martial law, we risk losing our army. Russian forces would take advantage of the situation. Military personnel would have the right to return home, and the overall fighting morale would be affected,” he explained. “This is not just a political decision—it directly impacts national security.”

He also addressed logistical challenges, including how military personnel, displaced citizens, and those in temporarily occupied territories would be able to vote.

“Millions of Ukrainians are abroad, and many remain in occupied areas. How do we ensure their right to vote?” he asked. “Soldiers defending democracy must also be able to participate in the electoral process. Otherwise, it would not be a fair election.”

Zelenskyy emphasized that the primary concern is not his presidency but the future of Ukraine. He called for continued national unity and dismissed speculation about personal political motives.

“The priority is saving Ukraine and its people,” he said. “This is about our country’s survival, not individual political ambitions.”

Earlier, US presidential envoy Keith Kellogg stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin must engage in direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy despite rejecting his legitimacy. Speaking ahead of the Munich Security Conference, Kellogg emphasized that negotiations are necessary to end the war, with both sides needing to make concessions.