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Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated he is prepared to conduct a national election during the ongoing war, if Ukraine's parliament and foreign partners approve. This statement comes after claims from the U.S. President that he was holding onto his position.

Visibly annoyed by the remarks from overseas, Zelenskyy emphasized that "This question for the population of Ukraine, not for individuals from partner countries, with all necessary respect to our partners."

Nonetheless, he promised to explore options for scheduling a poll in the next few months. "Given that this question is now being raised by the leader of the U.S., our key partner, I will respond succinctly: listen, I am willing for elections," Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday evening.

"Moreover, I am asking ... the United States to help me, potentially alongside EU counterparts, to provide protection for the vote, and then within the coming two to three months Ukraine will be able to hold the elections. I personally have the will and preparedness for this," he concluded.

The U.S. President's Assertions and The Country's Legal Reality

This criticism were expressed by Trump in a rambling interview released by Politico earlier on Tuesday. "Ukraine have not held an election in a long time," stated the American leader. "Understand, they speak of a democratic nation, but it becomes a situation where it's not a democracy any more."

Zelenskyy's mandate came to an end in May of last year, but the country's fundamental law prohibits elections in a time of armed conflict. Furthermore, his critics have stated repeatedly that safety and practical factors do not permit organizing an election amid the ongoing conflict.

"Doing so would only cause harm," said an opposition MP. "He's the supreme military commander, and the country is in a state where we don't have that option, whatever disagreements we might have with him. It would only aid the enemy," he continued.

Logistical and Legal Obstacles

Zelenskyy highlighted two key issues that must be resolved: the practical challenge of allowing military personnel, the many internally displaced persons, and those in occupied territories to participate, and additionally, how to constitutionally hold elections when martial law is in effect.

He asked for guidance from partner nations on securing the elections, and from members of parliament on how to amend the legislation to allow a vote. "{I am waiting for suggestions from allies, I am expecting suggestions from our MPs, and I am willing to go to the elections," said Zelenskyy.

Wider Diplomatic Context

Zelenskyy was speaking while returning to Ukraine after concluding a series of visits to multiple EU nations. This coincides with the White House has reportedly pushing on Kyiv to accept a ceasefire agreement.

Recently, Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., suggested at a conference that Zelenskyy was extending the war due to fears of electoral defeat. He also hinted that his father might "disengage" from Ukraine if the hostilities continues. "{It's not correct. But it's not entirely wrong," said Trump, when questioned about his son's claim.

Reports indicate that the U.S. has floated the idea Ukraine should relinquish the Donbas region to secure peace, a concession that would be extremely rejected within Ukraine. Additionally, there is presently no evidence that Russia is willing to accept any agreement, even a deal that might seem favorable to Moscow.