**Ukraine to Hold Presidential Election, Says US Envoy**
The leadership of Ukraine has agreed to hold a presidential election. This was announced by Steve Witkoff, the special envoy to the Middle East for US President Donald Trump.
Witkoff made this statement in an interview with journalist Tucker Carlson on March 21. However, the claims have not been verified by The Kyiv Independent.
**Russia’s Narrative**
Carlson echoed a Russian narrative in his interview with Witkoff. He suggested that Russia views Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as “not elected” and therefore unable to sign any treaties.
Witkoff responded that Ukraine will hold elections, but he did not provide further details.
**Russia’s Attempt to Undermine Ukraine**
The Kremlin has long tried to portray Zelensky as illegitimate. This is part of an attempt to undermine the Ukrainian government.
In February, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russian President Vladimir Putin was willing to talk with Zelensky, but only if the “legal aspects related to his legitimacy” were considered.
Meanwhile, Putin has ruled Russia for over 20 years.
**No Elections in Ukraine**
Ukraine cannot hold elections during Russia’s full-scale war because of martial law. This law was declared on February 24, 2022, after Russia invaded Ukraine.
Under Ukrainian law, elections must be safe, equal, and uninterrupted. These conditions are impossible to meet while Russia continues its attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
**Russia Attacks Zaporizhzhia**
On the evening of March 21, Russia attacked the city of Zaporizhzhia, killing two people, including a 20-year-old woman.