Ukrainian President Zelenskiy Considers Elections During Wartime Amid Calls from US Senator 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has responded to the recent call by a US senator Senator Lindsey Graham who urged Ukraine to hold elections in 2024, even during wartime. In a television interview with Natalie Moseichuk from the 1 1 Channel, Zelenskiy expressed his willingness to consider holding elections under certain conditions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy meets with Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, Greece-Image Source: Reuters

Under the current law in Ukraine, elections cannot be conducted during martial law, which is set to expire on November 15 after parliamentary polls in October. However, Zelenskiy believes that if partners share the financial burden, legislators approve and everyone has the opportunity to vote elections during wartime could be possible.

During Senator Graham’s visit to Kyiv on August 23 he commended Ukraine’s efforts in countering Russian President Vladimir Putin but emphasized the importance of holding elections as a show of difference during wartime.

Zelenskiy revealed that he had discussed the matter with Senator Graham, focusing on the need for funding and the required legal changes. He emphasized his commitment not to divert money from defense spending to elections, as stipulated by the law.

The Ukrainian President estimated that holding elections during peacetime would cost approximately 5 billion hryvnia ($135 million). However, he admitted uncertainty regarding the expenses during wartime. Zelenskiy expressed his hope that the US and Europe would provide financial support if elections were to be held under such circumstances.

Furthermore, to ensure the legitimacy of the elections, Zelenskiy proposed sending election observers to the frontlines. By involving international observers, Zelenskiy believes that the elections would be considered legitimate not only by Ukrainian citizens but also by the international community.

Although Zelenskiy’s response was positively received by Senator Graham, the implementation of elections during wartime will require further discussions with Ukrainian legislators and potential amendments to the existing law. The ultimate decision will depend on cost-sharing agreements a legal framework, and ensuring the participation of all citizens.

As Ukraine continues to navigate its political landscape amidst ongoing challenges, the possibility of holding elections during wartime remains a topic of considerable interest and debate.

Ukraine would also need help setting up additional voting access for millions of people overseas especially from the European Union he said.

“There is a way out” he said. “I am ready for it.”

Graham, a Republican, told reporters during a briefing in a bunker with fellow Senators Richard Blumenthal and Elizabeth Warren both Democrats, that his message to Zelenskiy would be they would fight to keep weapons flowing “so you can win a war that we can’t afford to lose.”

He added, “But I am also going to tell him this: You’ve got to do two things at once. We need an election in Ukraine next year. I want to see this country have a free and fair election even while it is under assault.”

Zelenskiy said those fighting Russia’s invasion would have to be included. “They are defending this democracy today, and not to give them this opportunity because of war – that is unfair. I was against the elections only because of this.”