No election in wartime — Ukraine’s parliament counters Trump

Ukraine’s parliament has passed a resolution reaffirming that elections cannot be held while the country remains under martial law, directly countering US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s legitimacy is in question due to the absence of elections during the war.

The resolution, which also asserts Zelenskyy’s continued legitimacy as president, serves as a rebuttal to both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who have implied that his authority is compromised. Lawmakers approved the measure on a second attempt after an initial vote on Monday failed to gain sufficient support.

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On Sunday, Zelenskyy stated he would step down if it secured peace for Ukraine, adding that he would also resign if it guaranteed the country’s NATO membership.

Parliament reiterated on Tuesday that Zelenskyy was elected in a legitimate vote and that his mandate remains valid. It also confirmed that elections will not take place until martial law is lifted following the establishment of a “just and lasting peace.”

Zelenskyy won a landslide victory in 2019, but his term officially ended last May. However, Ukraine’s constitution forbids elections while martial law is in effect.

Most Ukrainians, including major opposition parties, recognize that conducting credible elections is unrealistic at this time. Millions are displaced as refugees, and hundreds of thousands are engaged in combat.

Additionally, officials warn that holding elections now could create an opportunity for Russia to exploit divisions within Ukraine while the country remains focused on gaining adequate defense.

(ABC News)