Elections during wartime—Zelensky commented on the possibility.

The Ukrainian leader made this statement in an interview with The Economist on Wednesday, February 12.

Elections in Ukraine During War

Zelensky emphasized that the country will consider elections when it becomes feasible. According to him, this is definitely not the current focus.

"Not because someone is for or against. That's not the issue... We need to stop the war, bring it to an end, and restore a safe life for our people. Only then elections," the head of state stated.

Additionally, holding elections under martial law is illegal. However, the safety of Ukrainians comes first.

"How will people vote? Listen, everyone talks about how people will vote in the occupied territories. Let's start with a simple question. How will people vote in Kharkiv? The city of Kharkiv lives every day, today, under controlled aerial bombings, shelling, rockets, and so on," Zelensky noted.

The president reminded that most polling stations in Ukraine are located in schools that have been hit by Russian missiles. He also dismissed the proposal for a temporary ceasefire.

"There will be no ceasefire just for the sake of a ceasefire. A ceasefire could be part of the end of the hot phase of the war. And then we need to understand what security guarantees are in place. Without security guarantees, a ceasefire just so Putin can come in two months is not possible. Therefore, when the hot phase of the war ends. If it ends, the martial law will presumably end as well. I don't know, I think," Zelensky added.

It is worth noting that the First Deputy Head of the Verkhovna Rada, Oleksandr Korniienko, stated that currently partners are not financing election expenses in Ukraine since they are not being held.

Moreover, MP Elena Shuliak pointed out that discussing elections in Ukraine during wartime is impractical, as it is primarily important to ensure the ability for military personnel to vote and run for office.