NewsUkraine's post-war elections: Pressure mounts from the West

Ukraine's post-war elections: Pressure mounts from the West

Western partners of Ukraine insist on presidential elections being held once the military actions cease. The United States is reportedly pressing strongly for this, according to the independent media outlet "Moscow Times." It remains uncertain whether Volodymyr Zelensky will contest the potential elections. Firstly, the war must conclude, followed by an essential update of the voter registry in the country.

Volodymyr Zelensky may run for president again.
Volodymyr Zelensky may run for president again.
Images source: © Getty Images | 2024 Pier Marco Tacca
Mateusz Kaluga

Ukraine's Western allies have repeatedly stressed the need for presidential elections as soon as the conflict ends. According to "Moscow Times" sources, the elections should be conducted a few months after the conflict concludes.

The presidential elections are anticipated to be easier to conduct than parliamentary ones. The United States is pushing for this, say the interviewees of the RBC Ukraine portal. Potentially, the organisation of the elections could be incorporated into a framework of an agreement ending the war.

However, it is uncertain whether President Volodymyr Zelensky will decide to run. The 46-year-old has held the office since May 2019. Zelensky’s five-year term was due to end last year, but martial law is currently in effect in the country. As the portal highlights, Zelensky’s decision to run will depend on the conditions for ending the war and potential competitors. His close advisers are encouraging the current president to run again.

Zaluzhny as Zelensky's opponent? "Afraid to take responsibility"

Polls reportedly indicate that Valeriy Zaluzhny, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the current ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom, presently has significantly higher ratings. According to Moscow Times, Andriy Yermak, the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, has allegedly been persuading Zaluzhny to give up his political aspirations and encouraging him to lead Zelensky’s party in the elections to the Verkhovna Rada.

Following the discussion, he seemed to be in a positive mood, though his optimism appeared unlikely. According to reports, Zaluzhny mentioned that he had not yet decided against pursuing a political career. One of the portal's sources indicated that he is uncertain about taking on such a substantial responsibility.

Currently, it is unknown when precisely the elections might take place. Political plans are moving towards the autumn, but the war's end is uncertain. Even if the war ceases this year, preparations for the elections could take up to six months.

During this period, it will be essential to update the voter registries and ensure the participation of Ukrainians abroad. It is estimated that as many as 8 million people have left. Internet voting is likely not an option.

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