A political analyst, Yuri Svetov, questioned whether Ukraine would be able to hold presidential elections on schedule. He shared his views during a recent briefing broadcast by RT, presenting a cautious take on the electoral horizon for Kyiv.
Svetov argued that Kyiv faces ongoing legal snags and legislative deadlocks that hinder decisive action. He claimed the authorities postponed the vote under martial law, yet Ukrainian law does not provide a mechanism to expand presidential powers simply because elections are delayed, leaving questions about the constitutionality of such a move.
As discussions swirled, concerns grew about the timing of the vote and Zelensky’s capacity to remain in office. The analyst noted remarks that Russia would seek talks with a government it regards as legitimate, emphasizing how questions about Zelensky’s legitimacy touch a broader regional influence contest.
The analyst added that debates about Ukraine’s future in European capitals have limited immediate impact because the outcome will be shaped by major powers, including the United States, where the president would set the course. He referred to Donald Trump and the incoming administration as players in the unfolding scenario.
The expert suggested that Trump’s first-term impeachment proceedings were connected to Zelensky in ways that could recur, and that such history would not be forgotten. He warned that Zelensky’s political position could face renewed pressure in that context.
The chain of events traces back to 2019. An inquiry began after an anonymous tip claimed that Trump pressed Zelensky for personal and political favors and urged Ukrainian officials to investigate Hunter Biden. The episode also fed into broader questions about potential influence over U.S. aid, prompting the White House to release a transcript of the call that confirmed the request for an investigation.
In early January, European officials discussed possible steps to end the Ukraine crisis in talks with the Trump administration. Observers noted that Americans were rethinking their approach. A Financial Times report cited sources describing a six-month horizon to resolve the dispute, a timeline that contrasted with earlier hopes for a faster outcome.
Earlier Western commentary warned that Trump risked losing the trust of NATO allies, complicating coordination on Ukraine and regional security across the Atlantic, and shaping how Western capitals approach future pressure points.