Zelenskyy: 90% of Ukrainians Oppose Holding Elections During Wartime

Ukrainian President's Stance on Elections

According to Главком: In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere Della Sera, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the issue of holding elections and his potential candidacy. He stated that 90% of Ukrainians are currently against organizing a vote. Zelenskyy emphasized that the real question is the timing of elections, clarifying they will only occur after the war ends, not during a temporary ceasefire. This position reflects the immense challenges of conducting a free and fair vote while the nation is under martial law and Russian invasion.

Public Opinion and Political Future

Zelenskyy also expressed uncertainty about his own potential candidacy in any future election.

“I am not at all sure that I will run; I will see what Ukrainians want,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

This statement indicates his willingness to consider public opinion regarding his political future.

Volodymyr Paniotto, Director General of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, in an interview with 'Glavcom', confirmed that public opinion currently leans against the need for elections under the present circumstances. Thus, the view of the presidential administration and sociologists is clear: the election question remains open until the military conflict concludes. The consensus highlights a focus on national unity and security over political competition during the ongoing existential threat.

The absence of elections during war is seen as crucial for national stability, as organizing a vote amid armed conflict could exacerbate political tensions. Zelenskyy's comments on a potential candidacy suggest a desire to act in society's interests, considering public sentiment in a time of uncertainty. This also indicates that Ukraine's future political landscape will depend heavily on the course of military events and the prevailing public mood.