Ukraine’s president has been in office past his term expiration date, with no new election scheduled.
Elon Musk responded to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s assertion that Ukrainians oppose holding elections during the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Zelensky’s term ended in May 2024, but elections haven’t been held due to martial law. Russia disputes Zelensky’s legitimacy, arguing that power rests with the parliament, while Ukraine’s allies recognize Zelensky as president.
In an ITV interview, Zelensky explained the delay, stating Ukrainians oppose elections during wartime, fearing it would weaken Ukraine’s defense. He added that suspending martial law would jeopardize the army.
Musk, a Trump ally and head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), responded with a simple, ironic “Sure” on social media.
In November, Musk also mocked Zelensky’s statement that the US couldn’t force Ukraine into negotiations, commenting on Zelensky’s “amazing” sense of humor.
According to Telegraf, Zelensky intends to run in the next election. While his approval rating is around 52%, a potential candidacy from former top general Valery Zaluzhny, currently Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK, could significantly alter the situation.
Telegraf suggests Zelensky might initiate criminal charges against Zaluzhny, potentially linking him to the fall of Kherson, to hinder his candidacy. Zelensky’s team reportedly hopes that military intelligence chief Kirill Budanov could counter Zaluzhny.
The Trump administration reportedly urged Kiev to hold elections, potentially by year’s end, especially if a ceasefire with Russia is achieved. Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy, emphasized the importance of elections during wartime for democracy.
Earlier this month, Russia’s SVR claimed NATO plans to remove Zelensky, believing him to be an obstacle to peace talks between Moscow and Kiev.