Zelensky says if Trump, Putin want elections in Ukraine, a two-month ceasefire is needed

In an interview with ABC News on October 11, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelensky stated that if Trump and others want him out of office, he would hold elections, but only if there is a ceasefire. Ukrainian law prohibits elections during martial law, which was declared following Russia's full-scale invasion. However, Trump, potentially violating the law, defended his position by criticizing Zelensky, suggesting he could have made deals but chose not to.

Zelensky offered a compromise, asking Trump's team to convey to Russian President Vladimir Putin a two-month ceasefire (60 days off) in exchange for elections. He reiterated his readiness for the people of Ukraine to choose their leadership. When questioned about Trump and other figures like Elon Musk blaming him for the ongoing war, Zelensky attributed their stance to their inability to find a way to stop Putin, finding it easier to pressure others.

Zelensky also debunked Trump's claim that Ukraine is responsible for rising fuel prices globally, pointing out that the prices are due to the war in the Middle East and the blockage of Hormuz. He urged people to face reality and not play games with them. Despite the criticism, Zelensky expressed hope that Europe, the U.S., and Ukraine would continue to work together to stop Putin, emphasizing that Ukraine would defend itself to protect its life, homes, freedom, independence, and nation.