Zelensky says ready to run in wartime elections

KYIV -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he stands ready to run in presidential elections if a vote is held before the conflict with Russia ends, the Ukrinform news agency reported Monday.

"If it takes place during the war, of course, it is my duty, because I must defend my country from the beginning until the end of the war," Zelensky said.

Ukrainian law requires elections to be held at least six months after the end of hostilities, Zelensky said, noting that he was ready to explore ways for holding a vote during the conflict if Russia agreed to a 60-day ceasefire.

Zelensky explained that the 60-day preparation period would allow Ukraine to amend its election legislation and arrange the necessary security infrastructure.

Ukraine held the last presidential elections in 2019. In 2022, martial law was imposed in the country amid the conflict with Russia, prohibiting elections for security concerns.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump called on Ukraine to hold a presidential election.