Story perspectives

Zelenskyy: No Elections Without Security Guarantees First

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected claims that Ukraine would announce a presidential election or referendum on February 24, the anniversary of Russia's invasion, calling the idea "utterly stupid" and saying elections would occur only with proper security guarantees.
He said Ukraine is ready for elections but requires a ceasefire first.
Zelenskyy addressed Ukraine's European Union membership, insisting on a concrete accession date.
The European Union is developing a peace plan to help resolve the conflict with Russia.

History

Historical Context

Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014 heightened tensions in Ukraine, leading to armed conflict in the Donbas region and the imposition of EU sanctions that reduced trade with Russia by over 30%. The subsequent presidential election on May 25, 2014, saw Petro Poroshenko elected amid ongoing instability, shaping Ukraine's democratic trajectory and European integration efforts.

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Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected claims that Ukraine would announce a presidential election or referendum on February 24, the anniversary of Russia's invasion, calling the idea "utterly stupid" and saying elections would occur only with proper security guarantees.
He said Ukraine is ready for elections but requires a ceasefire first.
Zelenskyy addressed Ukraine's European Union membership, insisting on a concrete accession date.
The European Union is developing a peace plan to help resolve the conflict with Russia.

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