As the world watches the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, a new development has emerged that could have significant implications for the region. According to a recent report by the Financial Times, Ukraine is planning to hold presidential elections and a referendum on a peace deal with Russia by May 15 in order to avoid losing US security guarantees.

The decision comes amid pressure from the Trump administration to finalize peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in the spring. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reportedly been under pressure to hold elections before the end of martial law, which is currently in place until May 15. The US has been pushing for all documents to be signed to end the war with Russia by June, in order to shift their attention to the US midterm elections in November.

Zelenskyy had previously argued that holding elections while the country remains under martial law would be impossible. However, it seems that he has now changed his mind, with plans to announce election plans on February 24, the four-year anniversary of the war.

The timing of these elections is crucial, as they could have a significant impact on the future of Ukraine and its relations with Russia. The country has been embroiled in conflict since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and supported separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions of people.

The peace deal being negotiated between Ukraine and Russia is seen as a potential way to bring an end to the conflict. However, the deal has been met with skepticism by some, who fear that it could lead to a loss of sovereignty for Ukraine. The referendum on the deal is seen as a way to give the Ukrainian people a say in the matter.

The US security guarantees are also a significant factor in this situation. The Trump administration has been vocal in its support for Ukraine, and has provided significant military aid to the country. Losing these guarantees could have serious consequences for Ukraine’s security and stability.