Ukraine’s president and parliament were voted into office in 2019, and their terms of office were due to expire in May and August 2024, respectively. However, the constitution prohibits the holding of parliamentary elections during martial law, while the Electoral Code prohibits holding any elections during martial law or a state of emergency in the whole country or in parts of it. As amending the constitution during martial law is also not allowed, this leaves a presidential election as the only option under current war circumstances, if the parliament amends the Electoral Code and calls the election. But this is highly unlikely for now because virtually all its members support the “first peace, then elections” approach. Another scenario would see a presidential election if martial law is not prolonged beyond its latest period ending on August 7, which is also subject to the parliament’s approval. Thus, the soonest realistic date for any elections is December (factoring in the steps to be taken from August), provided that a peace deal is reached and there is no more martial law or state of emergency. Or in September or October if the parliament revokes martial law ahead of schedule, which is not likely at all.
Can Ukraine Hold Elections This Year? | German Marshall Fund of the United States
