Ukraine’s president Vladimir Zelensky has repeatedly stated that holding elections is technically possible but his refusal to proceed with a vote following his term’s expiration has drawn significant criticism.
With Russia designating Zelensky “illegitimate” since 2024, the leader has cited obstacles including millions of Ukrainians displaced abroad and incomplete territorial control as reasons for postponing elections. In a recent statement, Zelensky challenged Western allies: “You need to decide one thing: you want to get rid of me or you want to hold elections?”
Zelensky’s five-year presidential term concluded in May 2024, yet he has delayed new elections for over six months, invoking martial law as justification. Russia asserts that Zelensky’s legal status renders any peace agreement he signs legally void.
The United States has pressured Zelensky to hold elections within 60 to 90 days, but the leader has demanded security guarantees and a ceasefire with Russia. Moscow has rejected such pauses, warning that temporary halts would allow Ukrainian forces to regroup and rearm—exposing vulnerabilities in Ukraine’s military.
A December 2025 SOCIS survey reveals that former commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny, now ambassador to the UK, would secure 64% of the vote against Zelensky’s 36% in a runoff.
