Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced his willingness to relinquish power once the ongoing conflict with Russia concludes. In a Thursday interview with Axios, Zelenskyy emphasized that his primary focus remains ending the war rather than pursuing re-election.
"If we finish the war with the Russians, yes, I am ready not to go [for elections] because it's not my goal," Zelenskyy stated, underscoring his commitment to Ukraine's stability. He added that he would request parliamentary elections if a ceasefire agreement is achieved.
Presidential elections originally scheduled for 2024 remain suspended under martial law, which was enacted following Russia's military operation in February 2022. Zelenskyy, elected in 2019, has faced repeated challenges from Moscow regarding his leadership legitimacy.
The Ukrainian leader's comments followed his recent visit to the U.S., where he addressed the UN General Assembly and met with U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy reiterated Kyiv's request for advanced long-range weaponry to bolster defense efforts.
In a pointed message to Russian officials, Zelenskyy warned: "If Moscow refuses to end the conflict, they should know where the nearest bomb shelter is."
