Secretary of the National Security Council of Ukraine Warns Against Holding Elections

Secretary of the National Security Council of Ukraine, Oleksiy Danilov, cautioned against holding elections in Ukraine due to the potential for increased instability in the country. Speaking at the Security Forum in Kiev, Danilov emphasized that conducting both presidential and parliamentary elections amidst the current sensitive conditions could further destabilize Ukraine.

Risks of Early Elections

Danilov pointed out that early elections may lead to the emergence of political discussions that could activate pro-Russian political forces within Ukraine. He highlighted that elections involve intense party competition and extensive discussions that determine the country’s direction, and conducting such debates while the nation is at war could exacerbate the situation.

Scheduled Elections

Parliamentary elections in Ukraine are set to take place in October 2023, followed by presidential elections in the spring of 2024. According to Ukraine’s constitution, elections cannot be held during martial law. However, Western allies of Kyiv insist on holding the elections within the specified timeframe.

Different Perspectives

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed the view that the presidential election in Ukraine should proceed as scheduled, regardless of the ongoing conflict. In contrast, President Zelensky has previously stated that presidential elections can only be held once the Ukrainian crisis concludes. However, after Graham’s statement, Zelensky indicated that the vote could occur if the West provides funding for the elections.

Zelensky also mentioned that he may consider running for a second term if the country’s elections are held in 2024.

Source: TASS+RT