Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has clarified that presidential elections in Ukraine will not be held until necessary security guarantees are established and a ceasefire with Russia is in effect. This statement comes in response to reports suggesting that Ukraine was moving forward with a presidential election on May 15, allegedly under pressure from the United States. During a press briefing, Zelensky emphasized that the election would occur only if hostilities cease, outlining the inseparable links between electoral processes and national security.

Zelensky mentioned that if Russia agrees, there is a possibility of ending hostilities by summer, reinforcing the notion that the peace process must precede any electoral events. His remarks were aimed at dispelling reports from outlets such as the Financial Times, which suggested that his administration would announce plans for holding elections alongside a national referendum on peace proposals amidst the ongoing war, marking the situation's complexity as Ukraine approaches the four-year anniversary of the conflict.

Additionally, Zelensky refuted claims that the U.S. had threatened to withdraw security guarantees unless elections were held by mid-May, asserting that such threats were not forthcoming. His current presidential term is set to expire on May 20, 2024, but he is operating under emergency regulations due to the war, a situation that challenges his legitimacy as recognized by Russia, which has used the absence of elections to question his authority. This statement clusters the concerns regarding Ukraine's governance amid ongoing conflict while trying to secure both peace and democratic processes.