Trump’s Envoy Claims Ukraine Supports Holding Presidential Elections

Steve Witkoff, U.S. envoy, claims Ukraine will hold presidential elections, despite ongoing martial law preventing it. The Kremlin has attempted to delegitimize President Zelensky. Witkoff also dismissed concerns about a potential Russian invasion of Europe.

On March 21, Steve Witkoff, U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, asserted in an interview with Tucker Carlson that Ukraine has agreed to hold presidential elections. This statement surfaces amid ongoing discussions of Ukraine’s political landscape. Carlson added that Moscow views President Volodymyr Zelensky as “not elected,” suggesting he cannot engage in treaty negotiations.

Witkoff confirmed, “Yes. There will be. They’ve agreed to it. There will be elections in Ukraine,” yet did not elaborate on the timeline or details surrounding these elections. The Kyiv Independent has been unable to verify Witkoff’s assertions independently.

The Kremlin has been keen to undermine Zelensky by portraying him as illegitimate. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov previously indicated that any potential dialogue with Zelensky would necessitate consideration of his legitimacy, despite President Vladimir Putin’s long-standing authority in Russia.

Due to martial law declared on February 24, 2022, Ukraine has suspended elections, which are prohibited under current conditions. Ukrainian regulations stipulate that elections must be safe and fair, a challenge while ongoing hostilities continue to disrupt peace and civilian safety.

Additionally, Witkoff expressed confidence that Russia will not invade Europe, contending concerns regarding a Russian push into Europe are unfounded, despite the broader context of geopolitical tensions.

In summary, Steve Witkoff claims that Ukraine will hold presidential elections, a statement echoing a narrative from Russian officials regarding President Zelensky’s legitimacy. The ongoing martial law in Ukraine restricts elections, and Witkoff’s confidence regarding Russia’s intentions toward Europe further shapes the discourse surrounding this complex geopolitical situation.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com