The UDAR party has reiterated its firm position against holding elections during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has now persisted for five years. The party emphasizes that efforts should focus on national defense and achieving peace rather than political maneuvering related to elections.
In a statement, UDAR declared, “Our position remains unchanged: elections cannot be conducted amid active hostilities. The issue of elections repeatedly resurfaces in public discourse, primarily influenced by shifting political dynamics and the search for the most advantageous moment for certain political actors. This should not be the case. Decisions regarding elections cannot be made based on social polling or the convenience of current authorities or potential candidates. Elections should strengthen Ukraine, not weaken it.”
The party highlighted the challenges of ensuring fair electoral participation for all citizens in wartime, as required by law. This includes military personnel on the front lines, residents of temporarily occupied regions, internally displaced persons, and citizens living abroad.
UDAR pointed out that electoral rights encompass not only the right to vote but also the right to be elected. Military personnel defending the country may not have equal opportunities to participate in elections as voters and candidates. Similarly, millions of Ukrainians residing abroad, along with internally displaced individuals and those from frontline communities and occupied territories, face barriers to equal access to the electoral process.
Furthermore, the party assessed that polling stations, party offices, and public events could become targets of Russian attacks. Conducting elections may also lead to cyberattacks, information warfare, and the dissemination of misinformation.
“Security risks cannot be ignored. Polling places and political gatherings could be targeted by Russian aggression, providing the enemy with additional opportunities for disinformation campaigns and cyber operations that undermine trust in electoral results,” UDAR emphasized.
Palatny, a key figure in UDAR, stated that all politicians and officials need to concentrate on defending Ukraine against Russian aggression and pursuing peace rather than preparing for elections. He said, “Authorities and Ukrainian politicians should not be looking for ways to conduct elections but rather contemplating how the country can prevail in war and achieve peace that aligns with Ukraine’s interests. The timing of elections should be determined not by rankings or the desire to maintain or gain power, but by the state’s security and the ability to guarantee every Ukrainian’s right to choose freely and be chosen. Only such elections will not weaken Ukraine but will make it stronger.”
Context
- On August 18, former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov released a video address on YouTube outlining the key challenges facing the state amid the prolonged war, as well as addressing systemic governance issues, anti-corruption efforts, and the restoration of democratic processes. “Democracy in Ukraine cannot depend on the Kremlin,” Fedorov stated.
