According to sources cited by the Financial Times, Ukraine is preparing to conduct presidential elections and a referendum regarding a possible peace agreement with Russia in the spring of 2024. This initiative appears to be influenced by conditions set by the Trump administration, which has made security guarantees contingent upon the successful organization of these elections and referendum by May 15, 2024. The proposed date for announcing the elections is February 24, marking four years since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to provide details about the elections and referendum on this significant date. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian presidential office has not responded to inquiries regarding these plans. The context is marked by ongoing tensions and negotiations involving the United States, Russia, and Ukraine, with President Trump previously suggesting that a peace settlement should be reached by summer 2024. Failure to achieve this may lead to increased pressure from the U.S. on both Russia and Ukraine.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated in a recent interview that the path to a peaceful resolution in Ukraine remains long and fraught with challenges. The interplay of these political maneuvers highlights the delicate balance of power and the need for diplomatic solutions as the region continues to grapple with the repercussions of the conflict.