Zelenskyy and Zaluzhnyi discussed the possibility of holding presidential elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a closed meeting in Kyiv with the British ambassador to Ukraine and former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, according to Zamin.uz.

Based on reliable sources from local media, the meeting focused on the upcoming presidential elections expected to be held in the country, which became the central topic of discussion. During the conversation, Zaluzhnyi openly stated that he is ready to participate in the election process with his own candidacy.

Valeriy Zaluzhnyi was summoned to Kyiv from London amid unexpected changes in the UK government. Although the initial discussion covered cooperation and diplomatic and Ukraine and later the political situation.

Zelensky emphasized that the situation at the front is improving positively and that national unity remains intact, noting that favorable conditions for holding elections have emerged in the coming months. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the electoral process does not deepen societal divisions or escalate into sharp political confrontation.

At a key point in the meeting, Zelensky directly asked Zaluzhnyi whether, if elections were held this autumn, he would put forward his candidacy or not.

According to sources, Zaluzhnyi’s response was clear: he confirmed his intention to run in the elections. Afterward, the president reportedly withdrew his offer to assign him other planned positions.

Zaluzhnyi explained his decision not as a pursuit of political fame, but as a response to the people’s trust and hope in him. Later, Zaluzhnyi met with Ukraine’s Minister of Defense, Rustem Umerov, and representatives of the ruling party, warning that the elections could potentially affect the country’s stability.

Despite this, the former military commander’s position remains unchanged. Current sociological surveys in the country indicate that Zaluzhnyi’s ratings remain high.

At the same time, another strong political figure is emerging: Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence, is also gaining influence. The political situation in Ukraine is expected to become even more tense in the coming months.