Zelenskyy’s Rivals Discuss Elections During Martial Law with Trump Camp
Ukrainian political rivals of President Zelenskyy, including Yulia Tymoshenko and Petro Poroshenko’s aides, met with Trump administration officials to discuss the possibility of elections during martial law. They expressed strong opposition to any wartime elections, citing concerns over political persecution and election integrity while emphasizing the necessity for peace negotiations with Russia.
Recent discussions have emerged involving political rivals of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, including former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and aides of former President Petro Poroshenko. They met with officials from the Trump administration to explore the feasibility of conducting elections during the ongoing martial law, despite constitutional restrictions that prevent such actions in times of war.
Poroshenko publicly reaffirmed his opposition to holding elections amidst the conflict, emphasizing concerns regarding political persecution and the potential misuse of resources. He stated that any elections at this time may be compromised by Russian military presence and the displacement of voters.
The discussions followed President Trump ceasing his talks with Zelenskyy on February 28, during which he indicated that Zelenskyy should return to negotiations only when he was prepared to pursue peace. Tymoshenko highlighted Ukraine’s openness to negotiations aimed at ending hostilities with Russia, reiterating the country’s desire for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, especially in consideration of the electoral process.
Poroshenko’s remarks were made on March 6, following the meeting, where he condemned any election efforts under wartime conditions. His statements criticized actions perceived as buying votes or suppressing opponents, stating, “Our team has always been and is adamant against elections during a war.” He described the current government’s tactics as politically motivated persecution designed to facilitate an electoral strategy amidst the ongoing crisis.
In summary, discussions between Zelenskyy’s rivals and the Trump camp highlighted significant concerns regarding the feasibility of elections during martial law in Ukraine. Both Poroshenko and Tymoshenko voiced strong opposition to the prospect of holding elections while the country is at war, citing issues of democracy and political integrity under existing conditions. The focus remains on peace negotiations rather than electoral processes amidst the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: san.com
