Zelensky says Russia pushing for Ukraine elections to remove him from power
"Let's be honest -- the Russians just want to replace me," Zelensky said in an interview at the presidential palace, adding that: "no one wants elections during a war. Everyone is afraid of its destructive effect."
- World
- AFP
- Published Date: 12:32 | 21 February 2026
President Volodymyr Zelensky told AFP on Friday that Russia was pushing for Ukraine to hold quick presidential elections because Moscow wants to remove him from power.
"Let's be honest -- the Russians just want to replace me," Zelensky said in an interview at the presidential palace, adding that: "no one wants elections during a war. Everyone is afraid of its destructive effect."
The Ukrainian leader also said he had not decided if he would stand in a future vote.
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