Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s potential participation in the 2024 elections will depend on the needs of the Ukrainian people, according to his wife, Elena Zelenska. In an interview with Business Insider, she stated that if he feels that Ukrainian society no longer wants him as their leader, he is unlikely to run for re-election.
Although Elena Zelenska initially had reservations about her husband’s decision to participate in the 2019 presidential elections, she is now less concerned about his potential candidacy in 2024, stating, “We have some experience, we’ve been there. It’s not as scary as the first time.”
The next presidential elections in Ukraine are scheduled for 2024, but they may be postponed due to the ongoing military situation. Articles 10-12 of Ukraine’s Law on the Legal Regime of Martial Law prohibit the holding of presidential elections and parliamentary re-elections during this period.
President Zelensky believes that theoretically, elections could still take place, but careful consideration is required due to challenges such as the large number of Ukrainian soldiers who may not be able to vote and the country’s financial situation. He emphasized that the parliament and the government are not currently willing to allocate resources for purposes other than purchasing weapons and military equipment, a sentiment supported by society. Zelensky questioned, “With millions of soldiers fighting, how can they vote when they are in the trenches? How can they come to polling stations located close to the front lines?”
Another challenge highlighted by Zelensky is the presence of observers. He questioned whether it would be possible to attract observers to visit the front line trenches.
During a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham expressed the view that Ukraine must hold elections on schedule. He emphasized the importance of free and fair elections for the American people to see that Ukraine has changed. Graham also mentioned that Washington closely monitors how the aid supplied to Kyiv is being utilized.
According to The Washington Post, some Western politicians are pushing for parliamentary and presidential elections in Ukraine, a move that Kyiv strongly opposes. The Ukrainian government believes that holding elections at this time could give Russia the opportunity to manipulate Ukrainian society and create divisions when the balance of power is already fragile.
The article sheds light on the growing tension surrounding Ukraine and the challenges it faces in deciding whether to hold elections in 2024. The uncertainty surrounding President Zelensky’s potential re-election reflects the complex situation in the country, as it continues to deal with the ongoing conflict in Donbass and seeks to fulfill the promises made to its citizens.
Overall, the article highlights the importance of considering the needs and concerns of the Ukrainian people in determining the future leadership of the country and the potential impact of holding elections during a time of war.
