Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Wednesday that Ukraine will hold presidential elections as soon as possible after the final agreement to end the war with Russia is signed. This comes as part of the latest draft of the peace plan agreed upon with Washington.
Zelensky told reporters, including an AFP correspondent, that “the key provision of the plan stipulates that presidential elections must be held immediately after the agreement is signed.” He explained that the goal is to restore political stability and strengthen domestic and international confidence in the country’s future. He added that these elections will be a crucial step in rebuilding state institutions and will also ensure citizen participation in the decision-making process after years of ongoing conflict.
These statements come as negotiations continue between Kyiv and Moscow regarding the details of the plan, which includes a complete ceasefire. It also includes the withdrawal of forces from some disputed areas and the opening of channels for cooperation to rebuild damaged cities. Ukrainian officials hope that signing the agreement will represent a decisive step toward ending the conflict that has lasted for more than three years. It also aims to put the country back on the path to political and economic stability.
Analysts believe that the early announcement of the elections reflects Zelensky’s desire to reassure international partners, particularly the United States and the European Union, of Ukraine’s commitment to the democratic path after the war. This move provides a legal and political framework for protecting minority rights and ensuring broader participation in the electoral process. This is an important factor in promoting national interests and reducing internal tensions.
While Ukrainians await further details on the election timetable and voting system, the most crucial factor remains Moscow’s response to the final draft. This response will determine the speed of the agreement’s implementation and the success of the peace process. Faced with significant security and economic challenges, this declaration presents Ukraine with a historic opportunity to rebuild the state. It also restores the international community’s confidence in its commitment to peace.
