Ukrainian lawmakers are expected to extend martial law once more before its expiration on May 9, according to parliamentary speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk. This move comes amidst ongoing pressure from the United States and Russia for Ukraine to hold a new vote.

Stefanchuk highlighted the impracticality and legal challenges of conducting free and fair elections in a country that is partially occupied and under constant attack. This situation has persisted for three years since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russia has attempted to portray the Ukrainian government, including President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, as illegitimate since the invasion.

Despite these challenges, Stefanchuk emphasized Ukraine's commitment to democratic elections. Stefanchuk stated that planning for future elections has started, but it is in the early stages.

The last parliamentary and presidential elections in Ukraine took place in 2019. To extend martial law, which allows for troop mobilization and the suspension of the electoral cycle, parliamentary approval is needed every 90 days.

Stefanchuk, who would assume power if Zelenskiy were to be incapacitated or pass away, asserted that parliament is almost certain to renew its approval as the conflict continues. This means around 800,000 potential voters are currently in uniform, either fighting or training.

Stefanchuk noted that once the conflict ends, the process to hold proper elections will be a significant challenge. Ukraine will need to establish a new framework, including a new law detailing the timing, rules, and procedures. No decision has been made on the order of local, parliamentary, and presidential elections that will need to be held.

Stefanchuk mentioned that the cost of elections before the war was around 4 billion hryvnias ($100 million). In addition to financing campaigns and voting, Kyiv will also need to ensure security and prevent potential manipulation attempts by Russia.

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