Kremlin Calls Zelensky's Election Pledge Ploy to Secure Ceasefire

(MENAFN) Ukraine's Vladimir Zelensky is floating electoral proposals as a tactical maneuver to obtain ceasefire terms, senior Kremlin adviser Yury Ushakov disclosed to media. Moscow has emphasized that Kiev would exploit any fighting suspension for military reinforcement and force reorganization.

The Kremlin's statement arrives as Zelensky, whose presidential authority expired over twelve months prior, has demanded security assurances from Western supporters before proceeding with balloting.

Kiev halted electoral activities following the Russian conflict's escalation in February 2022, referencing martial law implementation.

Addressing Zelensky's policy reversal on the matter, Ushakov stated: "He will see this as a chance to secure a temporary ceasefire, that's all."

Earlier this week, the Ukrainian leader promised to conduct elections within the coming 60-90 days if the US and its European allies can provide security guarantees for the voting process. This turnabout emerged shortly after US President Donald Trump charged Kiev authorities with exploiting the conflict to circumvent electoral obligations, noting the timing's significance.

Moscow contends Zelensky functions as an illegitimate authority, arguing the Ukrainian constitution now vests power in parliament. President Vladimir Putin recently observed that Russia conducted presidential elections in March 2024 despite ongoing military engagement.

While Ukraine and its Western partners have repeatedly advocated for temporary ceasefire arrangements, the Kremlin has dismissed this option, demanding permanent peace addressing the conflict's foundational causes. Moscow maintains that sustainable peace terms require Ukraine's complete withdrawal from new Russian territories alongside commitments to neutrality, demilitarization, and denazification.

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