Elections during war: duty or illusion

Elections in Ukraine during the war are a topic that has long remained on the sidelines of discussions. Everyone understands that this is practically impossible for security reasons. However, Donald Trump's words have sparked new debates. He called on Ukraine to hold elections, and this did not go unanswered.

“They are using war to avoid a vote. But the Ukrainians have a choice,” Trump said. He did not rule out that Zelensky could win again.

Zelensky responded that Ukraine needs a "Sisyphean" for elections under martial law. According to him, the support of the United States and European partners is necessary for the security of the process.

“"I am ready for the elections. I ask the US and European colleagues to ensure a secret ballot. Then Ukraine will be able to hold elections within 60-90 days," the president said.

He instructed the people's deputies to prepare new legislative changes, as there are no plans to go to the elections. "The US is asking about the presidential elections. I am ready. The elections to the Rada and local elections were not discussed," Zelenskyy said.

The first steps in the legal framework for elections have been taken in the parliament. A working group led by Oleksandr Kornienko has appeared in the Rada, but there are still no real developments.

Kornienko argues that the lack of elections in Ukraine is not a matter of political will, but a consequence of war and constant threats from Russia. The dangers are numerous, and they are difficult to ignore.

He also noted that some technical solutions already exist. The CEC is working on several projects, but the documents are not yet ready for discussion.

In response to journalists' questions, Zelensky openly supported online voting through "Diya", but this is only for Ukrainians who have gone outside the country. "I have always raised the issue of legislative changes to enable online voting. However, a consensus with the parliament has not yet been reached," the president summed up.

Elections in Ukraine are traditionally held on Sundays at polling stations. There are exceptions for citizens with limited mobility, who can vote at home if they submit a corresponding application. The voting process is monitored by international observers. Voters abroad are also able to vote, including on the territory of diplomatic institutions.

The last presidential election was in 2019, when Zelensky won in the second round. Now the next election is due in 2024, but a full-scale Russian invasion makes that virtually impossible.

More than 50% Ukrainians believe that elections can only be held after a peace agreement and the end of the war with Russia. And this is not even about illusions. It is about responsibility, about the right to choose, which they are trying to deprive us of. The question will remain open until we decide: what is more important - words or actions?