Zelenskyy Open to Wartime Elections if US and Allies Guarantee Security

Zelenskyy Outlines Conditions for Wartime Vote

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his willingness to hold elections during the ongoing conflict, contingent upon significant security guarantees from the United States and its allies. Speaking on December 9, 2025, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine could be prepared to conduct elections within 60 to 90 days if these conditions are met. This declaration represents an evolution in Kyiv's position, which previously maintained that elections would only occur after the cessation of hostilities.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized that such a move would require comprehensive support to ensure the safety of voters and the integrity of the electoral process amidst continued Russian attacks. He specifically called upon the U.S. and European partners to assist in providing the necessary security framework.

Legal and Logistical Hurdles

Currently, Ukrainian law prohibits the holding of elections during martial law, which has been in effect since February 24, 2022, following Russia's full-scale invasion. To facilitate a wartime election, Zelenskyy has urged Ukrainian lawmakers to draft legislative proposals that would amend existing electoral laws. Beyond legal changes, significant logistical challenges persist, including:

• Ensuring the safety of polling stations and voters under missile attacks.
• Facilitating the participation of military personnel serving on the front lines.
• Addressing the voting rights of millions of Ukrainians displaced internally and abroad.
• Managing elections in territories currently under Russian occupation.

These factors contribute to the complexity of organizing a free and fair election during wartime.

International Context and Public Opinion

The discussion around wartime elections has gained traction partly due to external pressure. Notably, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly advocated for Ukraine to hold elections, questioning the country's democratic status without them. This sentiment has been echoed by some, while others, including European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper, maintain that elections are only feasible when circumstances permit.

Despite Zelenskyy's openness, public opinion within Ukraine largely favors postponing elections until after the war. A recent survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology indicated that 63% of Ukrainians believe elections should occur post-war, with only 22% supporting elections after a ceasefire with security guarantees. The Ukrainian government has also faced Russian propaganda that attempts to delegitimize Zelenskyy's presidency due to the absence of elections under martial law.