Following the ongoing war, Ukraine has been facing challenges in conducting elections due to the current state of martial law, imposed after Russian forces invaded in February 2022. President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that elections could only be held after a peace agreement with Russia is reached, indicating a desire to restore democratic processes despite the conflict. Recent discussions have indicated an urgency to develop a plan that aligns with US strategies for ending the war and enabling elections in a stable environment.

In response to the needs for maintaining a strong democratic posture, Zelensky has advocated for the establishment of a working group involving politicians and military personnel to explore the modalities for conducting elections under martial law. He has been vocal about not wanting Ukraine to appear weak internationally, suggesting that the absence of elections could be exploited by detractors. By affirming his support for holding elections, Zelensky aims to bolster Ukraine's political legitimacy and ensure that democratic practices are upheld even in challenging circumstances.

The conversation surrounding the potential for elections is crucial not only for domestic governance but also for international perceptions of Ukraine's stability and commitment to democracy. The Ukrainian government’s plan, influenced by previous electoral processes and oversight, will likely involve complex discussions around security measures as well as international partnerships to facilitate a peaceful electoral environment, further emphasizing the need for a comprehensive peace agreement before electoral processes can commence.