On December 30, the Center for Public Analytics 'Vezha' hosted a conversation featuring Valeriy Klochuk and expert Ihor Chelenko, focused on new political statements about ending the war and organizing election processes in Ukraine.
Amid public statements by the President and European politicians, the creation of an information and communication system 'Referendum' was analyzed. This is not about launching the referendum itself, but about the technical preparation of the Central Election Commission for possible future implementation. Ukraine's last referendum was held in 2000; since then, referendums were on hold due to lack of legal framework.
The discussion noted that a referendum on peace with Russia might help diffuse political responsibility and delay final decisions related to signing a peace agreement. It was emphasized that legitimate results are possible only if a long-term ceasefire is maintained.
Of the European leaders, particular attention was given to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s statement suggesting the war could end in a few weeks but with territorial concessions by Kyiv. Experts underscored that a shift in European rhetoric is linked to efforts to secure lasting guarantees for Ukraine, while Russia’s position remains unpredictable.
The conversation also examined the prospects for future presidential and parliamentary elections, highlighting legislative and organizational challenges under martial law. The need for new legal and digital tools to update the voter registry and verify voter identity was noted.
The discussion concluded that political dynamics around ending martial law, security guarantees, and the potential referendum will be closely tied to ongoing international negotiations.
