Trump’s Envoy Claims Upcoming Elections in Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s envoy, claims Ukraine will hold presidential elections. He confirmed Ukraine’s leadership has agreed to this despite the ongoing martial law due to the conflict with Russia. The legitimacy of President Zelensky is disputed by Russia, complicating international discussions. Witkoff also downplayed concerns about Russia attacking Europe.
Steve Witkoff, U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, discussed Ukraine’s anticipated presidential elections during an interview with Tucker Carlson on March 21. Witkoff asserted that Ukraine’s leadership has reached an agreement to hold elections, though he refrained from providing specific details. The Kyiv Independent did not immediately verify his statements.
During the interview, Carlson echoed Russian sentiment, suggesting that Moscow views President Volodymyr Zelensky as “not elected” and, therefore, questioning his ability to sign treaties. Witkoff confirmed elections would happen, despite the ongoing war.
The Kremlin has sought to undermine Zelensky’s legitimacy, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasizing the importance of “legal aspects related to his legitimacy” in discussions about potential talks with Putin. Notably, President Putin, who has maintained power in Russia for over 20 years, has faced calls for such legitimacy himself.
Elections in Ukraine are currently suspended due to martial law, enacted on February 24, 2022, following the Russian invasion. Ukrainian laws stipulate that elections must be conducted in a safe and uninterrupted environment, conditions not currently present due to continuing military conflict.
Additionally, Witkoff expressed confidence that Russia would not extend its military actions into Europe, dismissing concerns regarding a potential spread of conflict as unfounded.
Steve Witkoff’s claims about upcoming elections in Ukraine highlight the complexities of Ukrainian politics amidst ongoing conflict. The legitimacy of President Zelensky continues to be questioned by Russia, affecting diplomatic discussions. Ukrainian elections cannot proceed under the current martial law, underscoring the challenges faced in maintaining democratic processes during wartime. Overall, Witkoff’s statements reflect both optimism for future elections and the prevailing uncertainties due to ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
