MWE Correspondent
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on 9 December 2025 that he is prepared to hold presidential elections within 60 to 90 days, provided that security conditions and legal requirements are met.
Speaking to journalists while travelling from Rome to Poland, Zelenskyy called on the United States and European partners to help create a safe environment for voters amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Zelenskyy stressed that the decision to hold elections rests solely with the Ukrainian people, despite public comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who had urged Kyiv to set an election date promptly. Trump warned that prolonged delays in voting could undermine Ukraine’s democratic process, suggesting that Kyiv was using the war as a pretext to postpone elections.
“Ukraine wants sincerely to join NATO, and that is a rightful aspiration,” Zelenskyy said, addressing concerns that some alliance members remain hesitant about Ukraine’s membership. “We know clearly that Russia will never accept it, and without security guarantees, meaningful elections are difficult to conduct.” He added that for elections to proceed safely, Ukraine needs adequate military support to protect its citizens and maintain stability in conflict‑affected areas.
Also Read; Tanzania Urged To Celebrate Independence Safely At Home
Under Ukrainian law, elections cannot normally be held during martial law, currently in effect due to Russia’s invasion. Zelenskyy indicated that if conditions allow, parliament could take steps to enable voting safely, ensuring that citizens’ rights are respected and that displaced populations can participate. He rejected claims that Kyiv is delaying elections for political gain, emphasizing that the ongoing war is separate from questions of political succession.
Analysts say Zelenskyy’s announcement reflects a balancing act: maintaining democratic legitimacy while navigating the complex realities of wartime governance. Organizing a nationwide vote in active conflict zones poses logistical and security challenges, requiring coordination between the Ukrainian government, international observers, and allies to safeguard both voters and polling infrastructure.
The president’s remarks signal Ukraine’s commitment to preserving democratic processes even under extraordinary circumstances. Observers note that the coming months will be critical in determining whether Ukraine can conduct credible elections while ensuring the safety of millions of citizens affected by the war.
