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Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy has declared he is ready to conduct a national election amid the current war, if the Verkhovna Rada and international allies allow it. This statement is a response to accusations from the U.S. President that he was holding onto his position.

Obviously annoyed by the comments from abroad, Zelenskyy underscored that "This question for the citizens of Ukraine, not for individuals from partner countries, with all necessary respect to our allies."

However, he promised to examine possibilities for carrying out a poll in the next few months. "Given that this question is brought up by the leader of the United States, our key partner, I will respond briefly: look, I am prepared for elections," Zelenskyy remarked on Tuesday evening.

"Furthermore, I am requesting ... the U.S. to assist me, potentially alongside European counterparts, to provide safety for the vote, and then within the following 60-90 day period Ukraine will be ready to hold the elections. I personally have the desire and preparedness for this," he concluded.

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

This criticism were expressed by Trump in a rambling interview released by the publication Politico earlier on Tuesday. "They have not held an election in a while," stated the American leader. "Understand, they claim to be a democratic nation, but it reaches a point where it's undemocratic any more."

Zelenskyy's presidential term officially ended in May of last year, but the nation's constitution bans elections during martial law. Even, his rivals have stated repeatedly that security and political realities do not permit organizing an election amid the ongoing conflict.

"Doing so would only be detrimental," stated an opposition MP. "He's the supreme military commander, and the country is in a state where we don't have that option, regardless of disagreements we might have with him. It would only aid the adversary," he concluded.

Practical and Legal Hurdles

Zelenskyy pointed out two key problems that require solutions: the logistical challenge of enabling soldiers, the many internally displaced persons, and those in occupied territories to cast ballots, and additionally, how to legally hold elections when martial law is ongoing.

He sought advice from partner nations on securing the elections, and from lawmakers on how to amend the law to allow a vote. "{I am expecting proposals from allies, I am waiting for ideas from our parliamentarians, and I am willing to participate in the elections," affirmed Zelenskyy.

Wider Diplomatic Background

Zelenskyy made these remarks while traveling back to Ukraine after completing a round of talks to several European capitals. This coincides with the U.S. administration has reportedly applying pressure on Kyiv to sign a settlement.

Recently, Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., suggested at a forum that Zelenskyy was extending the war due to fears of being ousted. He also hinted that his father might "disengage" from Ukraine if the conflict continues. "{It's not correct. But it's not entirely wrong," responded Trump, when questioned about his son's allegation.

There are indications that the U.S. has floated the idea Ukraine should relinquish the eastern territories to achieve peace, a move that would be deeply rejected within Ukraine. Additionally, there is currently no sign that Russia is ready to agree to any agreement, even one that might seem beneficial to Moscow.