There is ongoing but mostly unseen maneuvering in the Ukrainian parliament around the issues of coalition and government. These processes remain current, with MPs negotiating possible coalitions or changes in government, though not always in the public eye. The Verkhovna Rada could play a significant role in future peace negotiations—either positive or negative—depending on the parliament’s position.
Experts note that both Russia and, in part, Donald Trump are calling for elections in Ukraine. However, the official stance remains unchanged: conducting elections while fighting continues is impossible. Moreover, Russia is considering the possibility of the Verkhovna Rada acting as the main mediator for a ceasefire agreement.
The Ukrainian parliament has previously assumed such a role, notably in 2014 after then-President Yanukovych fled the country. Powers were transferred to the Speaker, who—despite limitations—made significant state decisions during that period.
Experts outline two main scenarios for the parliament: the first is that things remain unchanged; the second is the formation of a new coalition that could elect a more independent speaker. Such developments would influence the relationship between the parliament and the president, and the process of approving any future peace agreements through parliamentary ratification.
Specialists believe President Zelensky might transfer responsibility for crucial decisions (such as a ceasefire) to the Verkhovna Rada, particularly by putting agreements to a parliamentary vote. Much, however, depends on the functioning of government bodies and potential challenges, such as delays in Western financial support.
Experts emphasize that as Ukraine’s supreme representative body, the Verkhovna Rada would have to make difficult decisions if it is involved in the peace process, thus sharing responsibility with the president.
