Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected any suggestion that Russia or its president could influence the timing or format of elections in Ukraine.
He insisted that the process remains the exclusive prerogative of Ukrainian citizens and authorities, even as the country continues to grapple with the realities of war.
Speaking on the conditions required for holding national elections, Zelensky underscored Ukraine’s constitutional independence and democratic sovereignty, making clear that decisions on voting are insulated from external pressure.
“It is not up to Putin to decide when or in what format elections in Ukraine will take place, because these elections are exclusively for Ukrainian citizens. Therefore, he will certainly not influence anything, let alone the outcome,” the president said, in an explicit rebuke of any perceived role for Vladimir Putin.
His remarks come after the Russian Federation President said there will be a ceasefire if the estimated 5 - 10 million Ukrainians living in Russia and have voting rights are allowed to participate in the elections.
“We are ready to consider ensuring security during the elections in Ukraine, at the very least by refraining from strikes deep into the territory on the voting day, and if elections are to be held, then we have the right to demand from those who will organise them that Ukrainians currently residing in Russia be given the right to vote on the territory of the Russian Federation,” Putin said at a special year-end news conference in Moscow.
Ukraine has not held elections since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, as martial law remains in force.
Under Ukrainian law, national elections cannot be conducted while the country is under martial law, a measure introduced to address the severe security challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky reiterated that the integrity of the vote depends on conditions that allow for transparency, fairness, and broad participation.
According to the president, voting can only be conducted in areas fully controlled by the Ukrainian state, where authorities can guarantee proper oversight.
“Voting is carried out by citizens of Ukraine who are within the country, on Ukrainian-controlled territory. Here, we can ensure fair and transparent elections,” he said, adding that mechanisms already exist for Ukrainians living abroad to participate through overseas voting.
Zelensky categorically ruled out the possibility of holding elections in territories occupied by Russian forces, arguing that any such exercise would lack legitimacy and credibility.
He pointed to what he described as Russia’s established practices in occupied regions as evidence that free and fair voting would be impossible under those conditions.
The president emphasized that two critical factors determine whether elections can proceed: security and legislation.
He said ensuring safety across the country remains the overriding concern, particularly for members of the armed forces actively defending Ukraine.
“Overall, elections depend on two factors: security and legislation. Security must be addressed; this is the top priority. It is important that our military personnel, who are defending the country, are able to vote. Every citizen has an absolute right to vote,” Zelensky stated.
Zelensky also revealed that the issue of elections has been discussed with Ukraine’s international partners, notably the United States.
He suggested that such discussions imply a recognition of the need for tangible security guarantees, potentially including a ceasefire, to create conditions under which Ukrainians could safely go to the polls.
His remarks signal that while Ukraine remains committed to democratic principles, the restoration of peace and security is a prerequisite for any future electoral process.
