Kyrylo Budanov Urges Ukraine to Postpone Elections Until War Ends to Maintain National Unity
Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the President's Office, stated that the current political situation in Ukraine is a period of tension rather than a crisis. He advised Ukrainians to avoid internal division and recommended postponing elections until the war concludes. Budanov argued that holding elections during active conflict poses a serious threat to the state's integrity, as it may lead to regions to declare autonomy if not everyone can vote normally. He recalled the 1918 events as a warning against the state breaking apart. The debate over wartime elections has also highlighted a growing rift between President Volodymyr Zelensky and former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. While Fedorov advocated for a "systemic governance crisis" and a practical mechanism to restore democracy during the war, Zelensky described the elections as a "tsunami" that could split the nation. The administration's goal is to maintain national sovereignty and unity while managing a $27 billion defense budget shortfall. Experts suggest that a stable ceasefire is necessary before a credible election can be held to ensure equal voting rights for refugees and military personnel.