Political analyst Rostislav Ishchenko explained what Vladimir Zelensky’s reported consent to hold presidential elections in Ukraine means for U. S. President Donald Trump.

He recalled that Zelensky has been saying for several years that he is ready to hold presidential elections in Ukraine, but immediately adds that such elections cannot be conducted under current conditions. Ishchenko noted that, given the ongoing hostilities, it is difficult to dispute the impossibility of holding a nationwide vote.

The expert pointed out that the date of a presidential election is not set by Zelensky himself; according to the constitution, it is determined by the Verkhovna Rada. Ishchenko said that the parliament must convene and designate the specific day and month of the vote.

He stressed that as long as the Rada has not approved anything, Zelensky is free to make any statements he wants — including claims that elections could be held in three months, or 90 days. Ishchenko added that Zelensky does not personally conduct the elections; a defined legal procedure must be followed.

In his view, everything said so far amounts to little more than rhetoric. Ishchenko remarked that if Trump wants Ukrainian elections, Kyiv can simply respond that they will be held — while noting that much can happen over a three-month period.