TL;DR: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he will not seek re-election after the war with Russia ends. In an interview at the UN General Assembly, he said elections should be held after a ceasefire, and that his goal was to serve during wartime, not to hold power in peace.
🔹 Elections After Ceasefire
- Zelensky noted that elections during wartime are blocked by martial law but could happen if a stable ceasefire is reached.
- His five-year term ended in May 2024, but elections were postponed due to the ongoing war, which began with Russia's invasion in 2022.
🔹 Military and Political Developments
- Zelensky confirmed Ukraine is using U.S.-supplied long-range weapons responsibly, saying they do not target civilians.
- He warned Russian officials to “know where your bomb shelters are in Moscow,” indicating possible escalation if attacks continue.
- He is planning government changes, including replacing the Prime Minister with Yuliia Svyrydenko, to strengthen wartime leadership.
🔹 International and Public Reactions
- Some social media users expressed doubt about his promise, while others supported his plan for a democratic transition.
- The U.S. and EU have reportedly encouraged Ukraine to prepare for elections after a ceasefire as part of broader peace talks.
- Zelensky’s remarks came during meetings with world leaders, including U.S. President Trump, at the UN General Assembly in New York.
🔹 War Status and Context
- Russia controls about 20% of Ukraine; the war has continued for over three years since February 2022.
- Ukraine has received over $100 billion in Western aid, but the front lines remain largely static.
- Zelensky’s decision is seen as a message of prioritizing peace and democratic process once the conflict ends.