Zelensky rejects call for elections during wartime, citing risk of national division

This statement comes after his former defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, called for organizing a vote. Ukraine has suspended elections under martial law, a measure that retains broad public support as the nation focuses on its defense against the Russian invasion that began in 2022. Zelensky emphasized that elections during wartime pose a significant risk, potentially acting as a "tsunami for the country that will split Ukraine."

He also noted that previous calls for elections have come from Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. The Ukrainian leader highlighted numerous obstacles to holding elections, including how soldiers, millions of Ukrainian refugees, and residents of occupied territories would vote, as well as the threat of Russian interference and physical attacks. An opinion poll indicates that only 15 percent of Ukrainians believe elections should occur before hostilities cease.

Despite some domestic criticism as the war continues, Zelensky remains largely popular. Fedorov, who was fired by Zelensky earlier, is reportedly planning a visit to the United States, fueling speculation about his political ambitions. Meanwhile, Zelensky announced a new drone deal with Norway following a Nordic-Baltic summit in Kyiv, with Norway pledging $9 billion to Ukraine for the n