Ukraine: Zelenskyy rejects wartime elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected the idea of holding wartime elections during the ongoing Russian invasion, stating that such elections would pose a significant risk to the country. The former defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, had proposed a vote, but Zelenskyy dismissed the suggestion, warning that elections under the current circumstances would split Ukraine and potentially destroy the nation.

Fedorov, who recently lost his position as defense minister, remains popular among younger Ukrainians, some of whom are advocating for his reinstatement and potential challenge to Zelenskyy's presidency. However, a recent poll indicated that Zelenskyy would still maintain a higher level of popularity if an election were held. In addition to his stance on elections, Zelenskyy also informed that Russia might mobilize an additional 300,000 troops for its invasion after parliamentary elections in September.

The Ukrainian leader also disclosed that negotiations with Germany have resulted in the delivery of 600 Patriot PAC-2 missile interceptors for 2027-28, which are crucial in defending against Russia's advanced ballistic missiles. Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Ukraine to discuss the matter on Saturday. The US, France, and Norway have also pledged their support by providing Patriot missiles and financial aid to Ukraine, as Europe strives to compensate for the United States' declining willingness to assist in the ongoing conflict.