Full Breakdown
Zelensky Says Wartime Elections Would Split Ukraine
8/25/2026, 8:37:02 PM
Core Event
He made the remarks during a briefing that preceded the Nordic-Baltic Eight summit in Kyiv. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s martial-law status, in place since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, bars elections under Ukrainian law.
Background & Context
Former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, dismissed in July 2026, issued a video appeal in early August urging the government to find a “legal, safe and realistic mechanism” for wartime voting. Fedorov argued that democracy should not be held hostage by the conflict. Ukrainian law, however, suspends all elections while martial law remains in effect, a measure that enjoys broad public support.
A poll by the Kyiv Institute of Sociology found that only 15 percent of Ukrainians think elections should be held before hostilities end, underscoring the limited domestic appetite for a vote amid ongoing combat.
Official Statements & Responses
Zelensky reiterated his position in multiple statements. He said no partner has offered a concrete plan that would allow soldiers, refugees, and residents of occupied territories to cast ballots safely. He also noted the logistical impossibility of guaranteeing security against Russian attacks, which continue to target civilian infrastructure across the country.
Fedorov, speaking to the media, maintained that “democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia” and called for a mechanism to renew the democratic process even during a prolonged war.
Criticism & Opposition
Fedorov’s proposal represents the primary dissenting voice. He contended that Ukraine faces a “crisis of governance” and that postponing elections could erode democratic legitimacy. His stance has drawn both support from segments of the public who staged protests demanding his reinstatement and criticism from military leaders who view his call as destabilising during a national emergency.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I believe that in a war like this, elections as such are a huge risk. Elections right now are a tsunami for the country that will split Ukraine,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, president
- “If we want to destroy the country, then during a war like this we can move toward elections,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, president
- “But no one has provided any concrete proposals,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, president
- “Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia,” — Mykhailo Fedorov, former defence minister
What’s Next
Zelensky indicated that Ukraine would consider any future electoral timetable only if international partners could guarantee safe, legitimate, and democratic voting conditions. Discussions with European allies at the Nordic-Baltic summit are expected to focus on security guarantees and the broader strategy for ending the war, but no specific electoral framework has been proposed.
