Trump suggests Ukraine should hold elections as part of a potential peace deal with Russia

Donald Trump has signaled that Ukraine should hold elections as part of a broader peace agreement with Russia, a move that could dramatically alter the course of the war. Trump’s latest remarks suggest that Ukraine’s political process could play a crucial role in any negotiated settlement.

While Trump has not detailed how elections would fit into a peace deal, his comments align with long-standing Russian narratives questioning the legitimacy of Ukraine’s leadership. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy postponed Ukraine’s 2024 elections due to martial law, citing the ongoing war and the impossibility of conducting a fair vote amid Russian attacks.

A Controversial Proposal

Trump’s remarks have sparked immediate backlash from Kyiv and its Western allies. Ukrainian officials argue that holding elections in wartime—especially in Russian-occupied areas—would be impossible and could legitimise Moscow’s territorial gains.

“Ukraine will not allow Russian bombs to dictate its democracy,” an adviser to Zelenskyy stated. “Elections will take place when Ukraine is secure—not as a concession to Putin.”

Trump has long criticised US military aid to Ukraine, advocating for a deal that would bring the war to an end. He has claimed he could resolve the conflict “within 24 hours” by pressuring both sides into negotiations. However, his critics argue that his approach could favour Russian interests, especially if it involves Ukraine making concessions on sovereignty.

Would Elections Benefit Russia?

Russia has consistently framed Zelenskyy’s government as illegitimate, and any election under Trump’s proposed conditions could play into Moscow’s strategy. Russian officials have previously suggested that a change in Ukrainian leadership could facilitate negotiations, implying they would prefer a government more willing to compromise.

Western leaders have largely dismissed Trump’s latest suggestion. European officials insist that peace must come on Ukraine’s terms, not under external pressure. The Biden administration has also reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, making it clear that Washington will not push Kyiv into premature negotiations.

Trump’s Influence on the War

Trump’s stance on Ukraine remains a major geopolitical concern. He could shift US policy away from military aid and towards diplomatic settlements that critics warn could undermine Ukraine’s position.

For now, Ukraine remains firm: no elections under Russian occupation, no compromises on sovereignty, and no peace deals dictated by foreign powers.