Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk has outlined the potential format for a nationwide referendum concerning the end of the war and the signing of peace agreements. According to the Speaker, questions regarding changes to the Constitution or the state structure cannot be put to a vote, meaning the phrasing must be as clear as possible.
He made these remarks while speaking to journalists at the Office of the President.
Stefanchuk emphasized that key issues regarding state sovereignty and the Constitution are red lines that cannot be subject to discussion or negotiation.
"There can be only one question for the referendum: do you support the agreement that will be submitted, or do you not," the Speaker of Parliament stressed.
According to information released in materials accompanying the statement, the deadline for drafting the relevant legislation is set for the end of February. A scenario is also being considered in which the referendum could be held simultaneously with presidential elections.
Ruslan Stefanchuk paid particular attention to security challenges. He noted that organizing the vote requires solving complex operational tasks: ensuring soldiers at the front and citizens abroad can vote, as well as guaranteeing the safety of international observers.
"So that their observers do not just concentrate on the western part of Ukraine, but also go to areas where there is a higher level of danger," the Speaker noted.
Stefanchuk emphasized that the legitimacy of any vote in Ukraine—whether elections or a referendum—depends on adhering to two fundamental components: security and democracy. Without this, the process will not be recognized by the international community.
"Ukraine is not Russia, that is for certain. And we do not need elections at any cost, or a referendum at any cost. [...] Elections or a referendum will only take place when they meet the democratic and security standards that exist in the world," Ruslan Stefanchuk concluded.
Earlier, David Arakhamia announced that a hybrid voting system with an online format is being explored.
