The United States called for understanding about the position of Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, who said holding elections in times of war would be irresponsible.
“I think it’s important to remember that Ukraine is in this position because Russia continues to wage a large-scale illegal war against Ukraine,” State Department spokesman Vidant Patel said when asked to comment on Zelensky’s statement. “Ukraine and its people are fighting to survive.”
“In the context of election talks, it is also important to remember that almost 20 percent of Ukraine is occupied and tens of millions of its citizens have been forced from their homes due to Russia’s war. Many of them are abroad as refugees,” Patel continued. “In addition, Russia continues to bomb civilian infrastructure throughout Ukraine on a daily basis.”
“We have also made clear to our Ukrainian partners that we are committed to supporting not only Ukraine in its struggles, but also its thoughtful and constitutional approach to preserving democracy in times of war,” Patel said.
Patel said that, as far as he understands, Zelensky’s comments are consistent with the Constitution of Ukraine, “therefore, let the Ukrainian side provide additional information on this issue.”