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Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy has declared he is prepared to organize a national election amid the ongoing war, if the Verkhovna Rada and international allies approve. This comment is a response to claims from the U.S. President that he was refusing to relinquish control.

Clearly frustrated by the intervention from abroad, Zelenskyy underscored that "This question for the people of Ukraine, not for individuals from other nations, with all necessary respect to our allies."

Nonetheless, he vowed to examine options for carrying out a vote in the coming months. "Given that this question is now being raised by the leader of the U.S., our ally, I will answer succinctly: listen, I am prepared for elections," Zelenskyy said on Tuesday evening.

"Furthermore, I am asking ... the United States to help me, perhaps in conjunction with EU colleagues, to guarantee protection for the elections, and then within the coming two to three months Ukraine will be able to conduct the elections. I myself have the determination and readiness for this," he concluded.

Trump's Comments and Ukrainian Constitutional Reality

These remarks were voiced by Trump in a rambling interview published by the publication Politico earlier on Tuesday. "They have not held an election in a long time," said the U.S. president. "Understand, they talk about a democracy, but it reaches a point where it's no longer democratic any more."

Zelenskyy's five-year term officially ended in May of last year, but the nation's constitution forbids elections during martial law. Furthermore, his political opponents have stated repeatedly that security and practical factors make it impossible holding an election amid the ongoing conflict.

"Holding a vote would only create damage," said an opposition MP. "Zelenskyy is the commander-in-chief, and the country is in a situation where we lack that luxury, regardless of problems we might have with him. It would only aid the enemy," he added.

Logistical and Legal Obstacles

Zelenskyy identified two key questions that must be resolved: the practical challenge of enabling soldiers, millions of displaced people, and those living under occupation to vote, and additionally, how to constitutionally hold elections while martial law is in effect.

He requested advice from partner nations on protecting the elections, and from MPs on how to change the law to enable a vote. "{I am expecting proposals from partners, I am expecting suggestions from our parliamentarians, and I am willing to go to the elections," said Zelenskyy.

Wider Political Background

Zelenskyy made these remarks while returning to Ukraine after completing a diplomatic tour to various European capitals. This coincides with the White House has reportedly pushing on Kyiv to accept a peace deal.

Recently, Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., suggested at a conference that Zelenskyy was extending the war due to concerns of losing power. He also hinted that his father might "withdraw support" from Ukraine if the conflict does not end. "{It's not correct. But it's not entirely wrong," said Trump, when questioned about his son's claim.

There are indications that the U.S. has suggested Ukraine should relinquish the eastern territories to achieve peace, a move that would be extremely unpopular within Ukraine. Furthermore, there is currently no sign that Russia is ready to agree to any deal, including one that might appear advantageous to Moscow.