The Ukrainian parliament has taken a firm stance against the establishment of polling stations in occupied areas and outside the country, specifically in Russia and Belarus. This decision was made by a parliamentary working group focused on drafting legislation for post-war elections. Vitalii Bezhin, a member of the working group from the Servant of the People faction, emphasized that there was a consensus within the group regarding this issue, underscoring the challenges of conducting fair elections in areas under foreign control or influence.

This development comes in the context of ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, which have significantly escalated since the full-scale invasion by Russia. The mention of polling stations in occupied territories is particularly contentious as it raises questions about the legitimacy and fairness of any election held in such conditions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously stated the need for a comprehensive ceasefire to allow for free and fair elections, highlighting the complexities involved in the electoral process amid conflict.

The exclusion of polling stations from occupied regions and hostile countries signals Ukraine's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its democratic processes. This decision also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, emphasizing Ukraine's stance against Russian and Belarusian influence in its sovereignty and electoral matters. As post-war elections are planned, these legislative decisions will play a critical role in shaping Ukraine's democratic landscape moving forward.