Says Ukraine's Election Could Be Held Next Year, President Zelensky Wants Civilians To Military Can Vote

President Volodymyr Zelensky. (Source: President.gov.ua)

JAKARTA - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said elections in Ukraine may be held next year on schedule, but the country needs financial support for implementation that is not easy and can be followed by all citizens in the midst of war.

In an interview with local media, President Zelensky noted, the United States had held elections during the Second World War.

"We defend our democracy and land. That's why people talk about (the election). There is a political process. It cannot be banned," he said.

Under current military emergencies in Ukraine, elections cannot be carried out. However, President Zelensky said: "If our lawmakers are ready, because we need to change the Election Law, we have to do it quickly."

President Zelensky further said he would not take allocated money to buy weapons to spend election needs, hoping America and Europe would provide financial support.

Among the challenges put forward by the president of Ukraine, he said: "We have to bring the observers to the forefront so that we can hold legitimate and recognized elections around the world."

Another challenge faced for holding elections is to ensure millions of Ukrainians in European territory and others can vote. He stressed that every Ukrainian citizen should be given the opportunity to vote.

"We need it to be the choice of the people, so as not to divide our people, so that the military can choose. They defend today's democracy, and it's unfair if they don't give them this opportunity because of war. That's the only reason I'm against elections," he explained.

"I don't want the authorities to be considered the party in power. I don't stick to anything. I want to hold elections. I want to do it within a year," President Zelensky concluded.