European Union (EU) officials have reaffirmed the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, countering criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized Zelensky’s democratic mandate, noting that he was elected through free and fair elections.
Trump had accused Zelensky of being a “dictator” for not holding elections, but EU officials clarified that Ukrainian law prohibits presidential elections during martial law, which has been in effect since Russia’s invasion.
Kallas who is also the Prime Minister of Estonia noted that many national constitutions provide exceptions for elections during wartime.
In response to Trump’s remarks, Kaja Kallas, in her capacity as Estonia’s Prime Minister, highlighted Russia’s own questionable election history, pointing out that the country has not held genuine elections in 25 years.