KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has revealed that once the war with Russia ends, he is ready to leave office and not run in future elections.
In a heartfelt interview with Axios, Zelenskiy said his mission has never been about politics or power.
“If we finish the war with the Russians, yes, I am ready not to go for elections because it’s not my goal, elections,” he shared.
For Zelenskiy, the fight has always been about standing with his people in their darkest hour.
“I wanted very much, in a very difficult period of time, to be with my country, help my country. My goal is to finish the war.”
Standing Strong Amid War
Ukraine suspended its 2024 presidential elections under martial law after Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Since then, Moscow has tried to question Zelenskiy’s legitimacy.
But despite the relentless war, Zelenskiy’s bond with his people remains strong. A poll earlier this month showed 59% of Ukrainians still trust him, while 34% do not. His daily addresses, visits to soldiers on the frontlines, and tireless diplomacy keep him constantly in the public eye.
A Leader Focused on Peace
Zelenskiy said that if a ceasefire were ever reached, he would ask parliament to organize elections. Until then, his eyes remain on victory and peace, not politics.
During his recent trip to the United States, where he spoke at the UN General Assembly and met with President Donald Trump, Zelenskiy emphasized Ukraine’s urgent need for long-range weapons.
In a defiant message, he warned Moscow: if Russia refuses peace, officials in the Kremlin should know exactly where the nearest bomb shelter is.
Russia Fires Back
His words quickly drew a sharp response from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council. Medvedev sneered that Russia could use weapons powerful enough to render bomb shelters useless.
The war continues with no end in sight. Russia unleashes waves of drones and missiles on Ukrainian cities almost daily. Ukraine strikes back with its own long-range drones, though on a smaller scale, targeting military bases and energy sites.
A President Who Chose His People
Through it all, Zelenskiy has made one thing clear: his fight is not for power, but for peace. And when that peace finally comes, he is ready to step aside—knowing he gave everything for his country.
