Yesterday at 20:03
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he is ready to take part in national elections but emphasized that security conditions and proper legislation are essential for any vote during wartime. Speaking to journalists, he also noted that Ukraine has no ongoing negotiations with Russia, which continues its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. In addition, Zelenskyy confirmed that the Armed Forces have begun using a new “Sapsan” ballistic missile, alongside other long-range domestic weapons, UATV English reports.
Elections Only Possible with Security and Legal Framework
Zelenskyy stressed that talk of elections is ultimately a matter for the Ukrainian people, not foreign governments.
“To be honest, I am ready for elections if such a question arises. Claims that I’m holding on to power and therefore the war is not ending are absolutely inadequate,” he said.
He underscored that security remains the key challenge:
“How can elections be held under missile strikes? How will our military vote?”
The President said elections would also require updates to the legal framework to ensure their legitimacy under martial law. He called on the United States, the European Union, and Ukraine’s parliament to help create the necessary conditions.
“I openly ask the United States, together with European partners, to help ensure security for elections. If this is provided, Ukraine will be ready for elections within the next 60–90 days. I have the will and readiness,” Zelenskyy stated.
He also appealed to MPs to submit proposals for potential changes to electoral legislation during wartime.
No Peace Talks with Russia
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is not holding negotiations with Moscow because Russia shows no willingness for a peaceful resolution.
“We have no negotiations with the Russian Federation. They show no interest. We see only their strikes on our energy sector and critical infrastructure. This does not indicate any interest in a peace process,” he said.
Asked about the possibility of an “energy ceasefire,” Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine is open to such a step if Russia is genuinely willing.
On 8 December, Zelenskyy met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London to discuss the U.S.-proposed peace plan, which still lacks a compromise on territorial issues. Security guarantees remain one of the top priorities.
Ukraine Begins Using ‘Sapsan’ Ballistic Missile
Zelenskyy also confirmed that the Ukrainian military has begun using the new “Sapsan” ballistic missile, adding to Ukraine’s expanding lineup of long-range weapons.
“Ukraine is already using Neptunes, long-range Neptunes, Palyanytsias, Flamingos — and Sapsan as well. I’ll be honest, we’ve already started,” he said.
The President declined to disclose details or the number of missiles used:
“We don’t want the enemy to know all the precedents and details.”
He noted that the Neptune missile continues to perform effectively, adding that Russia often assumes strikes were carried out with Neptunes — and “let them continue to think so.”
