Zelenskyy: I have no intention of clinging to presidential chair

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he has no intention of remaining in office beyond his term.

Speaking in an interview with Polish media, Zelenskyy said he would back holding elections, provided security can be guaranteed, and necessary legislative changes are implemented.

"I have no intention whatsoever, under any circumstances, of clinging to the presidential chair," Zelenskyy said.

During the interview, Zelenskyy was asked about the prospects of holding elections under conditions of security amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. He highlighted the ongoing threats to civilian infrastructure, saying: "Bombing with a huge number of drones and missiles, strikes on infrastructure – all this is the true face of this war."

He added that discussions with the United States had been open. "My reaction to signals from the United States was very open: I said that I have no intention under any circumstances of holding on to the presidential chair. Of course, if the possibility of holding proper, decent, and democratic elections is ensured."

Zelenskyy noted that organising elections during wartime would require changes to Ukrainian legislation. He also stressed the importance of protecting voters: "However, I want to emphasise that if there is an opportunity to ensure the safety of people during such elections, so that people are simply not killed when they come to polling stations, then I am all for it."

The president clarified that he would support elections only if a ceasefire is in place. He also ruled out holding a referendum on territories currently in conflict.

Moreover, Zelenskyy has described his relationship with US President Donald Trump as open and respectful.

Zelenskyy said he always speaks frankly with Trump, a stance he believes earns the American president’s respect. “I always speak openly with President Trump, and I think this earns his respect. Probably not many people in the world tell the president honestly what they think. The president also treats me with sincerity,” he added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev