When Will Ukraine Hold Elections, And Is Kyiv Ready For A Ceasefire — Zelenskyy Comments

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that his country is prepared to hold presidential elections provided Russia agrees to a full 60-day ceasefire. Speaking on ABC News, Zelenskyy acknowledged that the United States has been unable to find a way to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin, a task proving more challenging than pressuring other adversaries.

The President's response to a question about why U.S. President Donald Trump accuses him of extending the war was that it's easier to discuss diesel prices and connect them to Ukraine, but everyone recognizes that fuel prices are increasing due to the Middle East situation. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire but not a unilateral one; the Russians must also cease their attacks.

He said Ukraine is prepared to start with any de-escalation steps and is willing to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, provided the Russians commit to refraining from striking Ukraine's diesel, refineries, and other facilities. Zelenskyy suggested that if the Russians are willing to not attack Ukraine's energy infrastructure, the U.S. should signal to them not to strike Ukraine's energy infrastructure in return.

This, he noted, would constitute a fair deal, although not the optimal one. The ideal scenario, Zelenskyy stated, would be to prevent the war altogether and stop Putin. However, the initial step, according to him, should be a ceasefire, an 'energy truce,' provided Russia agrees to it. Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's openness to this proposal, urging both sides not to target civilians.

He concluded that stopping Putin is a daunting task, harder than pressuring others, but the first crucial step is achieving a ceasefire and an 'energy truce,' if Russia is willing.