Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is considering announcing plans for a national referendum regarding peace with Russia and a presidential election slated for February 24, according to a report from the Financial Times based on information from Ukrainian and Western officials. This potential announcement comes as the U.S. is pressuring Ukraine to hold both votes by May 15, as failure to do so could result in Ukraine losing U.S. "security guarantees." The situation remains uncertain, however, as reaching a peace agreement with Russia before this deadline looks improbable, leading some authorities to doubt that the votes would take place as demanded by the U.S.

Ukrainian media outlet RBC Ukraine reports that a senior official from the Ukrainian presidential office stated that Zelensky would not announce the votes unless there is security assured first. This sentiment underscores the precarious situation Ukraine finds itself in, balancing international pressures with internal stability concerns. Since taking office in May 2019, Zelensky's term was set for five years, but is now extended due to ongoing wartime conditions.

Additionally, Zelensky revealed earlier this month that the U.S. has proposed June as a deadline for negotiations aimed at ending the war with Russia, which means he is being urged to provide a clear roadmap for peace. The interplay of these elements highlights the complexity surrounding Ukraine's political landscape, as Zelensky navigates intense domestic and foreign pressures while striving to maintain the country's sovereignty and ensure its safety amid the ongoing conflict.