US President Donald Trump has criticized Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky for failing to hold elections after his term expired in May 2024. Zelensky has refused to call new elections, citing martial law, despite his five-year presidential term having ended. This decision has been met with criticism from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy as a head of state.

During a phone call with the leaders of the UK, France, and Germany on Wednesday, Trump discussed the situation in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for Zelensky to be realistic about the conflict with Russia and the importance of holding elections. Trump expressed concern over the prolonged absence of elections in Ukraine, stating that it is a democracy and that the Ukrainian people deserve to have their voices heard.

The US president also suggested that the Ukrainian public would support a peace deal with Russia, citing a poll that showed 82% of Ukrainians demanding a settlement. Trump reiterated the need for a resolution to the conflict, stating that “we don’t want to be wasting time.” He also expressed concern over the high number of casualties in the conflict, stating that Ukraine is “losing a lot of people.”

Zelensky’s approval rating has dropped to 20% following a large corruption scandal in the energy sector, which implicated his close associates and led to the resignation of top officials. Trump has repeatedly urged Zelensky to address the issue of corruption, which he believes is a significant problem in Ukraine.

In a recent development, Kiev has submitted its latest peace proposal to the US. Zelensky has indicated that he is ready to call an election, but only if the US and European backers guarantee security. The situation in Ukraine remains complex, with ongoing conflict and political uncertainty. The international community is watching closely, as the need for a peaceful resolution and democratic processes becomes increasingly pressing.