President Trump Urges Ukraine to Hold Elections Amid Ongoing Conflict
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed criticisms regarding the delay in holding elections due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. President Trump has been vocal about the need for Ukraine to conduct elections, suggesting that the war is being used as an excuse to avoid them. Zelenskyy, whose term was set to end in May 2024, has stated that elections could be held if the U.S. and European allies can ensure security and if legal adjustments are made to allow voting under martial law. Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, which legally prohibits elections. Zelenskyy emphasized that the decision to hold elections should be made by Ukrainians, not international allies, and highlighted the logistical and security challenges posed by the war.