Ukraine to Forego Elections Even if Ceasefire with Russia is Reached – Top Zelensky Aide

The US-proposed 30-day truce would not result in the lifting of martial law, says Mikhail Podoliak.

Ukraine will continue to enforce martial law and will not hold a presidential election even if a ceasefire with Russia is established, Mikhail Podoliak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, told the Italian newspaper la Repubblica on Friday.

Martial law has remained in effect in Ukraine since the escalation of hostilities with Russia in February 2022. Zelensky’s presidential term officially ended in May 2024, but he has declined to organize a new election, sparking debates over the legitimacy of his administration.

Since taking office in January, US President Donald Trump has been working to mediate an end to the conflict. Earlier this week, Washington proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine indicated it was prepared to accept—provided Russia also agreed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the ceasefire proposal as "a good idea" but highlighted various issues that would need resolution beforehand. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted on Friday that these matters would likely be discussed in future talks between Moscow and Washington.

Ceasefire Won’t Affect Elections, Says Podoliak

Despite ongoing discussions, Podoliak emphasized that a temporary truce would not signify an end to the conflict.

"We must retain our ability to fight until the situation is fully resolved," Zelensky’s aide stated in his interview with la Repubblica.

"A 30-day ceasefire will not unblock the elections," he added.

In January, Putin declared that Zelensky’s presidency was illegitimate, raising questions about the validity of any agreements negotiated with his administration. Zelensky had earlier implemented legislation barring any negotiations with Russia’s current leadership.

The Trump administration has since reestablished diplomatic contacts with Moscow and has urged Kiev to explore pathways toward a resolution. In February, the Kremlin reiterated that Putin remained open to negotiations with Zelensky, though it underscored the necessity of addressing the legal uncertainties surrounding the Ukrainian leader’s legitimacy.

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