US Urges Ukraine to Hold Elections Amid Ongoing Conflict

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The United States is advocating for Ukraine to conduct presidential and parliamentary elections potentially by the end of 2025, contingent on a ceasefire with Russia, according to Keith Kellogg, former special envoy for Ukraine and Russia under President Donald Trump. Kellogg emphasized the importance of holding democratic elections even during wartime, stating, “Most democratic nations have elections in their time of war” and underscoring the need for “more than one person potentially running” for election.

Despite these calls, a clear plan from the Trump administration remains elusive, with insufficient details on how to execute peace negotiations or electoral processes amidst the ongoing conflict. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously indicated that elections could be feasible if hostilities cease and robust security guarantees are established.

In the backdrop of these political discussions, the situation remains dire, with recent military actions resulting in significant casualties. Over the weekend, Russian strikes in Ukraine killed at least 12 people and damaged multiple residential buildings, adding urgency to the calls for a resolution to the conflict.

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