Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that holding national elections during the ongoing war would be too dangerous, warning that the process could split the country, according to a report by Dutch outlet DVHN.
Speaking on the matter, Zelensky argued that a vote under current conditions would create severe internal divisions, describing the potential consequences as fracturing for the nation. The remarks were published on Sunday, August 23, 2026, and were also carried by several other Dutch-language media outlets, including NU, Nederlands Dagblad, De Telegraaf, and HLN.
Zelensky’s comments come as Ukraine continues to face full-scale military aggression from Russia, now in its third year. The president has previously resisted calls for elections during martial law, citing logistical challenges, the safety of voters and candidates, and the risk of destabilizing the country while it is under attack. In the latest statement, he reiterated that the priority must remain national unity and defense rather than political campaigning.
The constitutional and legal framework in Ukraine currently prohibits elections during martial law, which remains in effect. However, international partners and some domestic voices have periodically raised the question of electoral timelines, particularly as the conflict shows no immediate sign of resolution.
DVHN reports that Zelensky’s warning reflects a broader concern that electioneering could distract from the war effort and provide an opening for foreign interference. He reportedly framed the issue as a matter of national survival rather than political preference.
Observers will be watching whether international pressure for a vote increases as the war drags on, and whether Ukraine’s leadership can maintain a unified front in the face of such calls.
