Putin 'promises' not to strike deep inside Ukraine on election day — But there’s a catch

Putin mentioned that Ukraine considers it necessary for the US to ensure security for Ukrainians during the elections.

The Russian President boasted that he had held "presidential, municipal, and regional" elections after the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and that "no one ensured security" for Russia.

"Nevertheless, we are ready to consider ensuring security during elections in Ukraine, at least by refraining from strikes deep into the territory on voting day," he said.

However, according to the Kremlin chief, there is an issue "that cannot be ignored." Millions of Ukrainian citizens allegedly live on the "territory of Russia." Of them, between 5 and 10 million "have voting rights," the Kremlin chief claimed.

"If elections are held, then we have the right to demand that those organizing them ensure that elections are organized and that Ukrainians currently living in Russia are given the right to vote on the territory of the Russian Federation," Putin added.

"I agree that the authorities in Ukraine must ultimately become legitimate. And without holding elections, this is impossible," Putin said.

Elections in Ukraine

The issue of holding elections in Ukraine was raised by US President Donald Trump. He believes that the country allegedly lacks democracy if elections have not been held for a long time.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he is ready to go to elections. However, for this to happen, Western allies must ensure security, and Ukrainian members of parliament must prepare the legislative framework, as elections are prohibited in the country under martial law.

Shortly afterward, the Ukrainian head of state, speaking to leaders of the Coalition of the Willing, said that holding elections would require establishing a ceasefire at least for the duration of the electoral process and voting.