By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his readiness to hold presidential elections, as stated in a comment to La Repubblica. This followed comments from Donald Trump, who suggested Ukraine should hold elections, claiming the country is no longer a democracy. The European Commission has responded, noting that elections can only occur under the appropriate conditions due to the ongoing Russian war. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin has cited the “illegitimacy” of Zelenskyy as reason to not sign a peace agreement with Ukraine.
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Zelenskyy responds to Trump’s demand for elections: Always ready. The situation is pretty clear-cut, isn’t it? The core issue revolves around Trump, and his, let’s say, *suggestions* regarding Ukraine holding elections. And the essence of Zelenskyy’s response, from what I gather, boils down to a resolute “Always ready,” though perhaps not in the way Trump anticipates.
The fundamental problem, as I understand it, lies in the practical and constitutional impossibilities. Ukraine’s constitution, quite plainly, doesn’t permit elections during wartime. Then there’s the undeniable safety issue: holding an election in a country actively targeted by Russian forces, where voters would be prime targets for attacks. It’s almost comical how this has become a talking point echoing Putin’s own narratives.
It really begs the question: What’s the endgame here? Does anyone, even within the Russian camp, genuinely believe that the next Ukrainian election would magically produce a leader more amenable to their aggression? The Ukrainian party system, it seems, is poised to evolve, perhaps mirroring the historical complexities of Irish politics, with two deeply rooted factions. The idea of televised debates devolving into a competition of anti-Russian sentiment is…well, predictable.
What really sticks out is the audacity of Trump’s interference. Why is he meddling in another country’s electoral process? How would the US react if another nation started demanding elections within its borders? It seems, as has often been the case, that Trump is prioritizing his own personal gains over any semblance of respect for the sovereignty of others or even his own country. It is especially galling considering he seems indifferent to elections in Russia, where the current leader has been in charge for decades.
It’s hard not to see this as a blatant attempt to undermine Ukraine and pave the way for a more pro-Russian leader. Trump’s well-known disregard for democratic processes, and his willingness to cozy up to Putin, paints a clear picture of his motivations. It’s hard to ignore how this call for elections aligns with a potential “peace” plan that would likely favor Russia, potentially ceding territory. It appears he wants to use the elections to unseat Zelenskyy and install someone more friendly to Moscow.
From what I can tell, a far more effective response from Zelenskyy would have been to turn the tables. “You first,” he might have said, challenging Russia to hold free and fair elections. This would have driven home the hypocrisy of Trump’s demands and forced him to confront his own silence on Russia’s actions. It would highlight the glaring difference between a nation defending its democracy and an aggressor actively trying to destroy it.
Consider the potential fallout: a manipulated election, Zelenskyy’s loss, and the ensuing chaos. It’s a scenario straight out of a playbook designed to destabilize and control. It’s not about genuine concern for democracy; it’s about control. And, perhaps, a desire to align with Putin and throw Ukraine under the bus.
Given the existing situation, such elections are not only impractical but deeply problematic. The constant threat of Russian attacks makes any legitimate, safe election impossible. You’d have to be blind not to see how this situation allows Russia to control the outcome. And by demanding elections in this way, Trump is effectively aiding Russia’s plan to control Ukraine.
The whole situation is made even more absurd by the fact that Trump himself seems uninterested in respecting democratic norms, both at home and abroad. His past behavior and his rhetoric give a clear indication that he would do whatever it takes to win, regardless of the consequences. It’s a sad reality when someone who wants to potentially cancel American elections tries to criticize another nation’s conduct of elections.
The Ukrainian constitution and their existing laws are designed to ensure fair and safe elections. There is no legitimate reason for this demand from the former president. It feels as though Trump is testing the waters, pushing the boundaries, and potentially preparing the ground for an even more authoritarian future. He seems to be suggesting that elections are secondary to his goals, and that the US may also take the same route.
The audacity of it all is truly staggering. An individual with a demonstrated lack of concern for democratic values is now attempting to strong-arm a nation currently fighting for its very existence. History will remember this for what it is: an attempt to undermine democracy and Western values, for personal gain.