The European Commission's spokesperson for foreign policy, Peter Stano, has rejected Russia's accusations that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is illegitimate, explaining that Ukraine cannot hold free elections because of the war on its territory. This was reported by Stano.


He noted that the organization of elections is impossible when Ukraine is under constant attack from Russian missiles, drones and bombs, and millions of people have become internally displaced both inside and outside the country. 


Organizing elections in such conditions is dangerous, as polling stations will become a target for attacks by Russia.


He emphasized that it is impossible to ensure free and fair elections because of the war, as the behavior of the Russian military and the Kremlin leadership is characterized by extreme cruelty.


Stano also reminded that according to the Constitution of Ukraine, the current president remains in office until the newly elected president takes office. The principle of continuity of power is key for Ukraine, and society has no doubts about the legitimacy of Volodymyr Zelensky as president.


He summarized that the European Union also has no doubt about Zelensky's legitimacy as president of Ukraine.