Zelensky Declines US-Driven Election Timeline, Insists on Security Guarantees

In response to heavy pressure from the US to hold elections by May 15, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky insists that security must be guaranteed before any announcement of an election or peace agreement referendum can be made. The Office of the President and other key officials have emphasized that talks and negotiations are ongoing, with the next round possibly taking place on February 17 or 18 in the USA.

Background

According to the Financial Times, the Trump administration is pushing Kyiv to organize a presidential election within the next few weeks, with some expecting Zelensky to announce the election on February 24, the fourth anniversary of the large-scale invasion's start. This push from the US reportedly comes with the implication that Kyiv could risk losing proposed U.S. security guarantees if it does not hold both votes by that date.

Key Developments

However, Zelensky has continued to link elections with a ceasefire and security guarantees for Ukraine. Elections only after a ceasefire and obtaining security guarantees, Zelensky stated, as reported by ANSA. He reiterated this stance on February 11, according to a source in the President's Office familiar with the matter who spoke to the Kyiv Independent.

In a move that further emphasizes Ukraine's focus on security, President Zelensky has enacted the decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC) titled “On Security Guarantees for Ukraine,” as reported by Ukrinform.

Implications and Reactions

Zelensky's insistence on security guarantees before committing to an election timeline has received mixed reactions. Rada deputy Yegor Chernev cited the establishment of an air shield over Ukraine as one of the measures that would signal US support for Ukraine's security.

On the other hand, the insistence on a ceasefire and security guarantees has caused some to question the feasibility of the proposed timeline. The Financial Times noted that earlier U.S.-imposed deadlines have come and gone, and the timeline could be complicated by the wide gap between Moscow's demands and Kyiv's positions.

Conclusion

As of now, talks and negotiations continue with the focus on territorial issues and security guarantees. Ukraine is ready for the next round of negotiations in either Miami or Abu Dhabi, but the Russian side has not yet confirmed its participation, according to Ukrinform. Despite the international pressure, it seems clear that Ukraine's leadership will not commit to an election or peace agreement referendum without concrete security guarantees.