'Russians want just to change me': Zelenskyy on elections and ceasefire
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would be ready to hold a presidential election if a ceasefire lasting at least two months is achieved, while also stating that Russia seeks to replace him.
He made the remarks in an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan.
Read also: Zelenskyy's tough call: Why White House urging Ukraine to hold elections during war
"I think our partners have to answer one question, what they want. Do they really want elections, or do they just want to change me? And I think Russians want just to change me, and they could use what you mentioned before, physical change or other steps," Zelenskyy said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed he would never reject proposals from the United States if they could help bring peace to Ukraine. He said that even a two-month ceasefire could allow him to speak with parliament and push for a decision that lawmakers currently do not support, namely holding elections during wartime.
Zelenskyy noted that public opinion also remains cautious about elections during the war, since a temporary ceasefire would not mean the conflict is over. However, he said that if a short ceasefire were in place, it might be possible to sign certain agreements or hold a referendum, after which people could support a peace framework. He added that he would do everything possible, including engaging with parliament in hopes lawmakers would amend legislation.
The president also said Russian officials, in discussions with Americans, claim elections in Ukraine could be organised within one or two weeks but argued this ignores the fact that Ukraine’s political system functions differently. He pointed out that the Verkhovna Rada includes multiple parties with differing positions even during wartime, meaning decisions cannot simply be imposed without discussion or justification.
Zelenskyy added that he had asked the United States to ensure Russian leader Vladimir Putin halts hostilities for several months to allow elections to take place, saying he would be prepared to hold a vote under such conditions.
Elections in Ukraine
The issue of elections has been increasingly discussed in recent months. According to Reuters, Kyiv and Washington have discussed the possibility of reaching a peace agreement with Russia as early as March, while presidential elections and a referendum were reportedly being considered for May.
Financial Times also reported that Ukraine may have begun preparations for presidential elections and a referendum before May 15, citing pressure from the United States and claims that security guarantees could depend on progress.
Officials in the presidential administration responded cautiously, saying no election announcements would be made without adequate security conditions.
First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Oleksandr Korniienko recently said the country would need at least 60 days of a full ceasefire to prepare election legislation and organize the process during wartime.
Russian officials have also commented on the issue, saying that if Kyiv decides to hold elections, the Kremlin would be ready to guarantee a ceasefire, but only on the day of voting.
