Zelensky calls wartime elections a 'tsunami' that would split Ukraine
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday rejected holding elections during the war, calling them a 'tsunami' that would split the country. He said no Western partner has offered concrete security conditions for a safe, democratic vote. Zelensky also criticized protests using offensive slogans against soldiers and commented on the dismissal of former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
Key Facts
- Zelensky said elections during the war would be a 'tsunami' that would split Ukraine, speaking to journalists on Sunday, August 23.
- He stated that no Western partner has provided concrete proposals for ensuring security during elections, including participation of soldiers, residents of frontline areas, and millions of Ukrainians abroad.
- Zelensky said a ceasefire agreement is absent because Vladimir Putin 'does not want to agree to any ceasefire options.'
- He criticized protesters who used offensive slogans against Ukrainian soldiers, calling such treatment unacceptable during wartime.
- Zelensky said former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov proposed changing the Armed Forces management system, which the president did not support, and that Fedorov refused other positions offered to him.
Wartime Election Rejection
Zelensky said elections during the war would be a 'tsunami' that would split Ukraine, speaking to journalists on Sunday, August 23. He recalled that about a year ago Ukraine was pushed from different sides to hold elections during the war. His position was clear: if partners offered concrete conditions for safe, legitimate, and democratic elections with participation of soldiers, frontline residents, and millions abroad, then it could be discussed. However, no Western partner provided such proposals, and Zelensky said this is impossible while Vladimir Putin 'does not want to agree to any ceasefire options.'
Government and Military Disputes
Zelensky commented on personnel changes in the government, citing the need to accelerate the resilience plan, including preparation for winter. He said disagreements between the Ministry of Defense and military leadership became a serious problem for a country at war. The president stated that the army and the ministry must act in coordination: the military is responsible for operations, and the ministry for supplying the army. Zelensky criticized protesters who used offensive slogans against Ukrainian soldiers, saying such treatment is unacceptable during wartime.
Fedorov Dismissal
Zelensky said former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov proposed changing the Armed Forces management system, which the president did not support. He added that he has a positive attitude toward Fedorov and offered him other positions in the team several times. According to Zelensky, Fedorov refused all the offers.
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Zelensky calls wartime elections a 'tsunami' that would split Ukraine
