Zelensky Says Allies Push Elections to Force Him Out of Power

(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has suggested that Western partners may be urging elections as a way to push him from office, raising tensions over his political future. His five year term expired in May 2024, a milestone that Russia seized upon to declare him “illegitimate.”

In an interview released Sunday by media, Zelensky acknowledged that organizing a vote is technically possible but listed major obstacles: millions of citizens displaced abroad, incomplete territorial control, and the need to rewrite electoral law. He then issued a pointed challenge to Kyiv’s backers.

“I told the partners, ‘you need to decide one thing: you want to get rid of me or you want to hold elections?’” he said.

Zelensky stressed that any ballot must be credible. “Hold them in a way that the Ukrainian people will recognize, first of all. And you yourself must recognize that these are legitimate elections.”

Since declaring martial law, Zelensky has delayed new polls, citing wartime conditions. Russia argues his extended tenure undermines any peace deal he signs, branding him an “illegitimate” leader.

Pressure has mounted from Washington. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged elections, at one point calling Zelensky a “dictator.” In response, the Ukrainian leader said he could organize a vote within 60 to 90 days but demanded Western security guarantees and a ceasefire with Moscow. The Kremlin has rejected such a pause, warning it would allow Ukrainian forces to regroup.

Polling data underscores the risks for Zelensky. A December 2025 survey by SOCIS showed former commander in chief Valery Zaluzhny, now Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK, would capture 64% in a runoff against Zelensky’s 36%.

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