Ukraine continues its struggle against Russia’s ongoing invasion, questions surrounding the legitimacy of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s leadership have surfaced, especially since his five-year term officially ended on May 20. However, the extraordinary wartime circumstances necessitate an extension of his presidency, a point that both Ukrainian and international authorities have reinforced.
President Zelenskyy’s tenure has undeniably been marked by unprecedented challenges. With Ukraine facing the gravest security crisis, the notion of holding elections is rendered practically impossible. International democracy watchdogs have consistently rated Ukraine’s elections as free and fair in the past, but the full-scale invasion by Russia in February 2022 has drastically altered the landscape. “It would be unfair if those defending our land were denied the opportunity to vote,” Zelenskyy commented in March, underscoring the logistical and moral dilemmas posed by wartime conditions.
The safety of millions of voters and thousands of election officials cannot be guaranteed amidst constant threats to civilian areas and targeted attacks by Russian forces. Additionally, millions of Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced persons further complicate the feasibility of an accurate and inclusive electoral process. The significant administrative efforts required to update voter registers and the limitations of existing voter registration procedures make it clear that any wartime election would fail to meet basic democratic standards.
Public sentiment in Ukraine aligns with the government’s decision to postpone elections. A February 2024 poll conducted by the Rating Sociological Group found that 67 percent of Ukrainians opposed holding presidential elections during the ongoing invasion. This consensus extends to Ukraine’s rival political parties and vibrant civil society, with more than 100 organizations releasing a joint statement in September 2023 rejecting the idea of wartime elections. Notably, all parliamentary factions endorsed a memorandum in November 2023 backing the postponement of votes until hostilities cease.
International voices have also supported Zelenskyy’s continued leadership. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated unequivocally that “Volodymyr Zelenskyy is the rightful and legitimate president of Ukraine,” highlighting that many national constitutions, including Germany’s, prohibit elections during martial law. Baerbock dismissed Russian propaganda questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy as a “very low game,” emphasizing that those responsible for the war are now undermining the democratic process by questioning the president’s legitimacy.
Relevant articles:
– President Zelenskyy’s term is over but he’s still a legitimate wartime leader, Atlantic Council, 05/23/2024
– Zelenskyy’s legitimacy is not in question — Germany, Yahoo Singapore News, 05/22/2024
– Square of presidency. What is the price of Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s legitimacy, ZN.UA (“Зеркало недели. Украина”), 05/20/2024
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