Ukraine must hold elections by the end of the year, especially if a ceasefire with Russia is agreed in the coming months, according to Trump’s top envoy, Keith Kellogg.
Presidential and parliamentary elections have been suspended during the war.
“Most democratic nations have elections in their time of war. I think it is important they do so,” Kellogg said.
“I think it is good for democracy. That’s the beauty of a solid democracy, you have more than one person potentially running.”
Trump and Kellogg are working to broker an end to the war, which began in February 2022.
At present, no details of a potential ceasefire deal have been made public, but it’s believed elections in Ukraine will be among the terms.
Sources told Reuters an initial ceasefire deal may be negotiated, with a view to reaching a permanent truce.
President Zelensky has indicated his willingness to hold elections, provided there is a guarantee of no further hostilities with Russia.
Zelensky’s five-year term was due to end in 2024, but presidential and parliamentary elections cannot be held under martial law, which was declared in 2022.
The Biden administration raised the issue of elections in 2023 and 2024.
Zelensky is also seeking European guarantees for a peacekeeping force to be deployed in Ukraine.
