Can Ukraine Hold Elections in 90 Days?

 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the country might be able to organize national elections within the next 60 to 90 days—but only if international partners can guarantee voters’ safety. His comments come as he faces pressure from US President Donald Trump, who claims Zelensky is using the war as a reason to stay in power.

Zelensky responded directly, saying he is fully prepared for elections but cannot risk citizens’ lives while Russian missile attacks continue. He asked the US and European allies to help provide the conditions needed for safe voting, especially for soldiers on the front lines.

Ukraine last held national elections in 2019, when Zelensky won the presidency by a large margin and his party later secured a parliamentary majority. Less than three years later, Russia launched its full-scale invasion, forcing the country into martial law and halting all scheduled elections. Martial law has been repeatedly extended since 2022, and Ukrainian officials have said voting will resume only when it is safe and democratic standards can be met.

Why Elections Are Being Discussed Now

Ukraine is in the middle of sensitive peace discussions. The government is preparing an updated response to a peace proposal developed by Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner. The original 28-point plan, widely criticized for favoring Russia’s demands, has been reduced to 20 points, but major disagreements—especially about territory—remain.

Trump has increased public pressure on Kyiv to make concessions and is using the expiration of Zelensky’s original presidential term as a political talking point. Russia has been pushing this narrative since 2024, calling Zelensky illegitimate and urging immediate elections. These claims have been a core part of Russia’s propaganda strategy.

By saying elections are possible if the West can ensure security, Zelensky appears to be shifting the responsibility back toward Washington. It is also a way to underline the need for a ceasefire to move forward with any democratic process.

Election experts warn that rushing a vote could create political confusion and instability, which Russia could exploit. They emphasize that elections should only be held once Ukraine can meet international standards for security and transparency.

Major Challenges to Holding Elections

Although Zelensky is open to elections, practical barriers are immense. Ukraine remains under martial law, and no legal framework currently exists for wartime voting. More than 5.9 million Ukrainians are living abroad, while another 4.4 million are displaced inside the country. Updating voter lists alone would be a massive logistical challenge.

The war has destroyed or damaged voting facilities. Only about 75% of polling stations are functional, and many regions face regular missile and drone strikes. Nearly one million Ukrainians are serving in the military, making it unclear how frontline troops could safely participate without a ceasefire.

Election officials say Ukraine would need at least six months of preparation to meet international standards. Anything faster, they warn, would not guarantee a free and fair election.

Many Ukrainians interviewed by local media believe the priority should remain winning the war, not organizing elections. With continued attacks, occupied territories, blackouts, and military operations, holding a nationwide vote in the next 90 days appears extremely unlikely.