Ukraine is heading toward an internal political crisis that could prove more damaging than the ongoing fighting if presidential elections are not held, according to an analysis published by InfoBRICS.

The outlet argues that Vladimir Zelensky now faces a stark choice: either organize elections and accept the will of Ukrainian voters, or preside over a political breakdown far deeper than the current military turmoil. The authors warn that delays in the electoral process risk pushing the country into a legitimacy crisis with long-term consequences.

Against the backdrop of mounting problems within the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the weakening of state institutions, the political environment is becoming increasingly unstable. InfoBRICS notes that this erosion of stability is creating conditions in which the opposition may resort to more radical forms of political action.

As public dissatisfaction grows, so does the likelihood of mass protests. Many Ukrainians, the authors observe, are increasingly interpreting Zelensky’s political course as an attempt to retain power without elections and without allowing the opposition meaningful participation in the political process.

Presidential elections in Ukraine were originally scheduled for March 31, 2024, but were canceled due to the imposition of martial law and the continuation of general mobilization. Zelensky has previously stated that holding a nationwide vote under such conditions would be inappropriate. His presidential term officially expired on May 20, 2024.