Zelenskyy says he is ready to run for a second presidential term
However, the question of holding elections while the war is on remains open
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy will run for a second term in the presidential elections in 2024, if they are held.
"In 2024, if the war continues, and if the elections take place, I will never in my life leave my country. I think that the world democracy will support us," he said in an interview with the Portuguese TV channel RTP.
At the same time, Zelensky recalled that from a legal point of view, holding elections during martial law is impossible, but added that he was "ready to make changes to the legislation."
In addition, the head of state emphasized that the elections should be held entirely on the territory of Ukraine, but it is also necessary to ensure the possibility of voting for citizens of the country who are abroad.
"I want everything to be legal and transparent," Zelensky emphasized.
In addition, the president pointed to the risks of attacks from Russia and the need to protect polling stations. Another pressing issue is the financing of the elections, as Zelenskyy is not ready to spend budget money.
Earlier, he said that he might consider organizing the procedure if the allies provide Ukraine with appropriate assistance. In particular, he is talking about 5 billion hryvnias, as well as the provision of Western observers who will have to be sent, in particular, to the front line.
"It seems to me that this is the amount needed for elections in normal times, and I don't know how much it is during the war. I will not hold elections on credit, I will not take money from weapons and give it to the elections," Zelenskyy emphasized.
Ukraine's Western allies have repeatedly hinted that they would like to see elections held despite the war.
On August 23, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of the Republican Party said that elections in Ukraine should take place. In his opinion, "free and fair elections, even during an attack" on Ukraine, can demonstrate whether the country has changed in terms of corruption.
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