Zelensky asks Verkhovna Rada to extend martial law in Ukraine

MOSCOW. April 15 (Interfax) - Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has asked Verkhovna Rada, the nation's parliament, to extend the martial law in the country for another 90 days, starting at 5:30 a.m. on May 9, Ukrainian media said on Tuesday, citing the parliament's website.

Martial law was declared in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and has repeatedly been extended since then.

Ukrainian officials have said on numerous occasions that presidential and parliamentary elections are impossible in Ukraine as long as the martial law stays in effect.

Russian officials, for their part, believe that Zelensky has no legitimacy as his term in office expired in May 2024. U.S. President Donald Trump has also repeatedly spoken in support of holding presidential elections in Ukraine.