Ukraine – Moscow Signals Pause in Strikes During Kyiv Vote
Ukraine – Russia has indicated it would suspend airstrikes on the day Ukraine conducts a presidential election, provided Kyiv moves forward with organizing the vote. The statement, delivered by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin in remarks carried by state news agency TASS, reflects a conditional offer tied to the broader political and military standoff between the two countries.
Moscow Links Airstrike Pause to Election Plans
According to TASS, Galuzin reaffirmed comments previously made by President Vladimir Putin, who signaled that Russia would be prepared to halt aerial attacks if Ukraine proceeds with presidential elections. Galuzin stressed that the Kremlin’s position remains unchanged but noted that there is currently no concrete plan in place for holding a vote in Ukraine.
He emphasized that discussions about election logistics have yet to begin, suggesting that the proposal remains theoretical until Kyiv formally initiates the process.
Allegations Over Disruption Attempts in Russia
In his remarks, Galuzin pointed to Russia’s own experience during its March 2024 presidential election. He claimed that despite ongoing military operations, polling stations were established in areas near active combat zones. According to the deputy minister, Ukraine attempted to disrupt voting in frontline regions through drone attacks and acts of sabotage.
Galuzin argued that these efforts did not succeed and maintained that Russia would not replicate such tactics. He stated that Moscow would allow Ukrainians to exercise what he described as their constitutional right to vote and determine their country’s future direction, should Kyiv decide to organize elections.
Kyiv Calls for Ceasefire Before Elections
The Russian proposal comes amid statements from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has linked the possibility of holding elections to a ceasefire agreement. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would be prepared to proceed with elections if Moscow agrees to halt hostilities.
He also called on United States President Donald Trump to use his influence to press for a ceasefire. Zelenskyy suggested that once fighting stops, Ukraine’s parliament could amend existing legislation to enable a presidential vote. He further floated the idea of a reciprocal arrangement, proposing that a ceasefire could also apply if Russia were to hold its own elections.
Diplomatic Talks Expected in Geneva
The exchange of statements unfolds ahead of a planned trilateral meeting involving representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. The discussions are expected to take place in Geneva on February 17–18. Diplomats are anticipated to address ceasefire prospects and broader security concerns during the talks.
While no formal agreement has been announced, the conditional offer from Moscow and Kyiv’s call for a ceasefire indicate that both sides are framing electoral processes within the larger context of the ongoing war. Analysts note that organizing nationwide elections in Ukraine would present significant logistical and security challenges given the continuing conflict.
For now, Russia’s proposal hinges on whether Ukraine initiates preparations for a presidential vote. At the same time, Kyiv maintains that any electoral process must follow a verified cessation of hostilities. The upcoming Geneva meeting may clarify whether these positions can be reconciled or remain part of a broader diplomatic standoff.