Can Ukraine Conduct Elections Within the Next 90 Days?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently stated that Ukraine might be ready to conduct elections within the next 60 to 90 days, contingent on adequate security being guaranteed. This declaration responds to accusations from former US President Donald Trump, asserting that Zelensky is leveraging the ongoing war with Russia to maintain his grip on power.
Security Concerns and Electoral Preparedness
Zelensky emphasized the importance of security for conducting any elections, given the ongoing conflict. He questioned the feasibility of voting under continual missile attacks, highlighting the complexities involved in ensuring safety for voters. “I am asking, and I am now declaring this openly, the United States of America to help me, together with our European colleagues, to ensure security for the elections,” he stated.
Although Zelensky’s popularity surged following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, his approval ratings have stabilized in recent years. During the conflict, a significant majority of Ukrainians indicated their trust in him, with 90% support noted in various polls.
Current Legal Framework and Challenges
While Ukraine is scheduled to hold presidential elections in 2024, martial law has been in effect since the invasion. This has prevented the holding of elections, as martial law restricts such activities. President Zelensky has maintained that elections would take place once the war concludes and that international voting standards can be met.
The ongoing conflict complicates the situation. Significant challenges remain, including the logistical difficulties of updating voter registrations. Currently, there are over 5.9 million Ukrainian refugees abroad and 4.4 million internally displaced individuals.
Election Infrastructure Status
- 75% of polling stations operational, according to deputy head of Ukraine’s electoral commission, Serhiy Dubovyk.
- Approximately 1 million Ukrainians are active military personnel, many of whom are stationed on the front lines.
- Meeting international standards for fair elections would require at least six months of preparation.
Many Ukrainians have voiced their opinions on the matter. A common sentiment among citizens is to prioritize the war over elections. Roman, a pensioner, remarked, “We need to finish the war first, and only then hold elections.” Similarly, a bookshop employee named Lana emphasized that elections should only occur after martial law is lifted and victory is achieved.
Conclusion
With parts of Ukraine still under occupation and daily threats from missile strikes, the prospect of elections carries substantial uncertainty. As the conflict continues, the focus appears to remain on military efforts rather than electoral processes, emphasizing the need for security and stability before any elections can realistically occur.
