Both the US and Russia have questioned the legitimacy of Vladimir Zelensky whose presidential term expired last year
According to Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, Ukraine will hold a presidential election. Witkoff shared this information with journalist Tucker Carlson.
Zelensky’s five-year term as president ended in May 2024, and he declined to schedule new elections due to martial law. Vladimir Putin has stated that he no longer recognizes Zelensky as a legitimate leader, suggesting this could impede a final peace agreement.
In February, Trump described Zelensky as a “dictator without elections,” suggesting he lacks popularity in Ukraine.
During a recent interview, Carlson inquired of Witkoff, a key Trump intermediary between Kiev and Moscow, whether Ukraine would hold elections.
“Yes. They’ve agreed to it. There will be elections in Ukraine,” Witkoff responded. He pointed out that Zelensky faces a considerable challenge, considering Russia’s larger population and nuclear arsenal.
“He’s got to know that he’s going to get ground down. Now is the best time for him to get a deal done. President Trump can deliver him the best possible deal,” Witkoff stated, emphasizing that continued aid hinges on a clear strategy for resolving the conflict. “We just can’t forever give money,” he added.
Earlier this month, Politico reported that members of Trump’s team have communicated with Zelensky’s political rivals, including former President Pyotr Poroshenko and former Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko. While both confirmed discussions with the Trump administration, they voiced opposition to holding elections until the conflict with Russia is resolved.
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