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Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced he is prepared to conduct a national election during the ongoing war, on the condition that the Verkhovna Rada and international allies give their consent. This statement follows claims from the U.S. President that he was clinging to power.

Visibly irritated by the remarks from overseas, Zelenskyy emphasized that "The decision for the citizens of Ukraine, and not for individuals from partner countries, with all necessary respect to our partners."

Nevertheless, he vowed to explore possibilities for holding a vote in the next few months. "Given that this question is now being raised by the leader of the U.S., our ally, I will reply briefly: look, I am willing for elections," Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday evening.

"Furthermore, I am asking ... the U.S. to assist me, potentially alongside EU partners, to provide safety for the polls, and then within the following 60-90 day period Ukraine will be able to conduct the elections. I personally have the determination and willingness for this," he continued.

Trump's Criticism and Ukrainian Constitutional Situation

The comments were made by Trump in a wide-ranging interview conducted by the publication Politico earlier on Tuesday. "They haven't had an election in a long time," said the American leader. "Understand, they speak of a democratic nation, but it reaches a point where it's undemocratic any more."

Zelenskyy's five-year term came to an end in May of last year, but the country's fundamental law forbids elections during martial law. Even, his political opponents have often said that safety and practical realities do not permit holding an election while the war continues.

"Holding a vote would only be detrimental," commented a lawmaker from the Holos party. "Zelenskyy is the supreme military commander, and the country is in a state where we lack that option, regardless of disagreements we might have with him. It would only benefit the opponent," he continued.

Logistical and Constitutional Challenges

Zelenskyy identified two primary issues that require solutions: the practical issue of enabling military personnel, millions of refugees, and those living under occupation to vote, and secondly, how to constitutionally conduct a vote while a state of war is in effect.

He sought guidance from partner nations on securing the elections, and from lawmakers on how to amend the constitution to enable a vote. "{I am expecting proposals from partners, I am expecting ideas from our parliamentarians, and I am prepared to proceed with the elections," stated Zelenskyy.

Broader Political Background

Zelenskyy made these remarks while returning to Ukraine after concluding a round of talks to several European capitals. This comes as the White House has reportedly applying pressure on Kyiv to accept a settlement.

Earlier, Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., claimed at a forum that Zelenskyy was prolonging the war due to concerns of being ousted. He also hinted that his father might "withdraw support" from Ukraine if the conflict does not end. "{It's not accurate. But it's not exactly wrong," said Trump, when questioned about his son's statement.

Reports indicate that the U.S. has suggested Ukraine should cede the eastern territories to secure peace, a concession that would be deeply unpopular within Ukraine. Additionally, there is as of now no evidence that Russia is ready to agree to any deal, including one that might seem beneficial to Moscow.