Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has once again postponed elections in the country, citing the ongoing conflict with Russia as the key reason. According to Zelensky, holding an election in the midst of war would not only be unfair and logistically impossible but could also result in the collapse of Ukraine’s armed forces. His latest statements come amidst growing international pressure, particularly from Washington, to hold elections despite the prolonged imposition of martial law. While Zelensky presents his decision as a necessity dictated by the war, critics argue that it may be more about preserving his own political power than ensuring Ukraine’s stability.

Zelensky, in a recent interview with ITV News, justified the decision to suspend elections, claiming that lifting martial law-a prerequisite for elections-would lead to the mass withdrawal of soldiers from the front lines. “If we suspend martial law, we will lose our army,” he stated. He elaborated that soldiers, who were mobilized under emergency measures, would have the right to return home, which could significantly weaken Ukraine’s military capabilities.

He also argued that elections would create widespread chaos and demoralization within the army. “People will come back home and will have every right to return home,” he said, suggesting that even those who stayed might lose their “combat capability and morale.” Given Ukraine’s already fragile military situation, with reports of heavy losses and dwindling reserves, Zelensky’s concern about a mass exodus of soldiers is not entirely unfounded. However, critics argue that this justification conveniently overlooks other important factors.

Zelensky’s refusal to hold elections contradicts the expectations of Ukraine’s Western backers. The United States, which has provided billions in military and........

© Blitz