Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is preparing to announce a plan on the 24th to conduct a referendum asking citizens whether they approve of a peace deal with Russia alongside the upcoming presidential election. This date holds significance as it marks the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, which led to the ongoing conflict. According to Financial Times' sources within Ukrainian and European officials, both the referendum and the election are expected to take place before May 15, indicating a timeline for potential resolve in the prolonged war.

The pressure from the Trump administration is notable, emphasizing that the U.S. will withdraw safety assurances to Ukraine if the election and referendum are not held by May 15. The White House is reported to be intensively pushing for a conclusion to peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia this spring, indicating a changing geopolitical strategy as the timeline near a significant U.S. electoral event approaches. Zelensky mentioned a desire from the U.S. to see everything settled by June, acknowledging the complex diplomatic pressures involved.

Moreover, Zelensky has been governing without holding elections due to martial law, which was implemented in response to the ongoing war, leading to questions about his legitimacy from both Russian authorities and critics such as Donald Trump within the U.S. The prospect of a peace agreement might involve territorial concessions in Eastern Ukraine, a point on which Zelensky has traditionally resisted. He reiterated the stance that Ukraine will not yield its position, indicating that while negotiations may be underway, the fundamental disputes regarding territory and control remain unresolved at this stage.