On September 19, at the Vezha Public Analytics Center, director Valeriy Klochok hosted the traditional Friday discussion with political scientists, economists and international relations experts. The main focus was the effectiveness of Western sanctions on Russia, the role of the US—especially Donald Trump, the EU’s position, and the potential for holding elections in Ukraine amid ongoing war.
The panel featured international affairs expert Maksym Nesvytailov, political scientist Anton Kuchekhid (United Ukraine analytical center), and financial analyst Ilya Neskhodovsky. Participants discussed how effective current Western sanctions remain, whether they can accelerate the war’s end, and how Trump’s positioning and US interests shape European energy and sanctions policy.
The discussion addressed the new 19th package of EU sanctions, the economic vulnerability of countries such as Turkey, internal European compromises, and pressure on Hungary and Slovakia. Issues covered included the so-called shadow fleet, sanctions on Chinese and Indian ports, and Russia’s use of cryptocurrency to evade restrictions.
The discussion also analyzed the US approach: Is Trump truly pressuring Europe, or is this informational manipulation? What are the US’s strategic interests in promoting American LNG exports, drawing Europe into anti-China policy, and coping with Western dependence on China’s rare earth elements?
A key topic was the possibility of elections in Ukraine under current conditions. Anton Kuchekhid of United Ukraine outlined possible scenarios, technical and legal challenges of voting during wartime, the restricted rights of military personnel and internally displaced people, and the prospective legislative changes.
Experts agreed that nationwide elections during active hostilities are virtually impossible, but the topic remains topical due to both domestic demand and external partners’ concerns about the legitimacy of Ukrainian authorities. The discussion ended with an emphasis on the importance of preserving democratic procedures even in wartime.
