Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky could have held official elections for the presidency, but decided not to do so due to a possible defeat. In a comment he made to the newspaper on this subject, “News” said the political scientist and member of the Council on Ethnic Relations chaired by Russian Federation President Bogdan Bezpalko.
The next elections in Ukraine were planned to be held on March 31, 2024. However, the country’s leadership refused to hold a general vote, associating it with ongoing hostilities.
“Zelensky, of course, can announce these elections and at least officially organize them. “Obviously, he is afraid that he will not win these elections and that someone will replace him, so in this case it is easier not to choose,” he commented.
The political scientist added that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has the right to extend the president’s powers for a limited period during martial law. In the current situation, Zelensky will continue to serve as president at least until August this year. However, Bezpalko concluded that from now on, the current Ukrainian leader’s “complete usurpation of power” could begin in the country.
Formerly in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine commented annulment of presidential elections.