New York, December 10, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared Ukraine’s readiness to conduct national elections within 60 to 90 days, contingent upon receiving international security guarantees from the United States and European partners to ensure safe and fair voting amid ongoing conflict.
Zelensky identified the primary barrier to holding elections as the current lack of security, citing the continued missile attacks across Ukraine and the imposition of martial law since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. He emphasized that without external security assurances, elections cannot realistically proceed.
The Ukrainian president made a direct call for the US and European allies to provide robust security guarantees, underscoring his personal commitment to advancing democratic processes once conditions allow. This request reflects Ukraine’s precarious position, balancing internal democratic ambitions with the ongoing risks posed by the conflict.
Legal and Political Constraints on Elections
Currently, Ukrainian law under martial law prohibits holding national elections due to security concerns. Zelensky and the Ukrainian parliament are actively pursuing legislative amendments to enable elections when the situation on the ground improves. These efforts form part of a broader initiative to restore governmental normalcy and uphold democratic legitimacy despite war conditions.
At the same time, Zelensky clarified that while international security guarantees are crucial, the decision to hold elections ultimately depends on the Ukrainian people’s will. He also noted that Ukraine remains not ready to join NATO, but continues to engage with Western partners on long-term security arrangements as part of a comprehensive peace and recovery framework.
Context and Diplomatic Dimensions
Zelensky’s announcement comes against a complex geopolitical backdrop, including former US President Donald Trump’s accusations that Ukraine delayed democratic elections under the pretext of war. Zelensky firmly rejected such allegations, affirming that Ukraine has been prepared to hold elections as soon as it can ensure their integrity and safety.
Concurrently, Ukraine is working on a revised peace plan that incorporates security guarantees and outlines a post-war recovery strategy. These negotiations with Western allies are closely linked to the timing and feasibility of elections, emphasizing the interconnectedness of security, diplomacy, and governance.
The readiness to hold elections signals Ukraine’s determination to uphold democratic principles despite ongoing hostilities, which is crucial for its political future and international credibility. The move also highlights the indispensable role of international partners in facilitating an environment that protects democratic processes amid conflict.
Securing international guarantees to hold elections may serve as a pivotal step toward stabilizing Ukraine’s internal governance framework and strengthening its diplomatic posture. The unfolding developments will be closely monitored by global leaders and policymakers invested in the trajectory of the conflict and Ukraine’s democratic resilience.