Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that he opposes elections during wartime, arguing that such a vote would be extremely dangerous while the war with Russia continues.
Commenting on a call by former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov to hold elections, Zelensky said elections in wartime would pose a huge risk and could deeply divide the country.
Zelensky warns of a political “tsunami”
The Ukrainian president said elections under the current conditions could “destroy the country,” adding that they would be like a tsunami hitting Ukraine and splitting society apart.
His remarks reflect the government’s long-standing position that no electoral process should be held while the country remains at war.
Elections suspended since 2022
Ukrainian authorities have suspended elections since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022 and imposed martial law, a measure that remains widely supported by the public, according to the report.
Ukraine has recently experienced a wave of unrest, with thousands taking to the streets after Zelensky dismissed Mykhailo Fedorov from his post in July.
Zelensky asks for 30 billion euros for defence
In a separate statement, Zelensky said Ukraine needs 30 billion euros, or about $35 billion, from the European Union to strengthen its defences against Russian attacks.
He said the money is essential to defend the entire country, adding that Ukraine currently faces a $27 billion shortfall in its defence budget.
Soldiers’ salaries and drone production
Zelensky said $20 billion of the gap is needed to pay soldiers’ salaries and compensate families of those killed in the fighting, along with other costs.
He also said additional funding is needed to produce drones, which he said have become central to Ukraine’s defences, adding that he is working with France and Germany on securing the financing.
Battlefield gains and losses
Zelensky also addressed the military situation, saying Ukrainian forces have retaken 820 square kilometres of territory from Russian troops since the start of the year, including most of the Dnipropetrovsk region.
He also acknowledged Russian gains, saying Moscow has seized an additional 990 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory this year, while expressing hope that Ukraine would reclaim more land by the end of the year.
Conclusion:
Zelensky’s rejection of elections during wartime underscores Kyiv’s insistence that martial law remain in place while the war continues. At the same time, his comments highlight the financial and military pressure Ukraine faces as it seeks more European support for its defence effort.
