When can martial law be lifted in Ukraine: Zelensky's answer

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a ceasefire could be part of the end of active hostilities, but without security guarantees, Ukraine will not take such a step

Take care of reliable insurance for safe entry and stay in Ukraine

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In an interview with The Economist, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that martial law in the country would be lifted after active hostilities end. According to the head of state, a ceasefire may be part of the end of the ‘hot phase’ of the war, but without clear security guarantees, Ukraine will not agree to such a step.

What exactly did the President say?

‘Without security guarantees, a ceasefire just so that [the enemy] can come in two months? No, this is impossible. This means that the hot phase of the war will end. If it ends, then martial law will probably end,’ Zelenskyy explained.

Thus, the President directly links the cancellation of martial law to the end of the ‘hot phase’. According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the cessation of hostilities without certain conditions could result in additional risks for Ukraine and only delay the possible resumption of aggression.

Elections after martial law is lifted

Zelenskyy also reminded that after the martial law is lifted, Ukraine will need to hold elections, as election campaigns cannot be held under the current martial law.

‘After the martial law is lifted, the parliament must hold elections... Announce the date and take the appropriate legislative steps,’ the President stressed.

Thus, the prospect of holding parliamentary and presidential elections in Ukraine will directly depend on the development of the situation at the frontline and Ukraine's receipt of international security guarantees.

Without long-term and reliable guarantees from allies and international organisations, the risk of renewed hostilities remains high.

The Ukrainian government believes that a premature ceasefire could give Russia time to regroup and re-attack. Zelenskyy believes that security guarantees should include specific mechanisms to prevent aggression and clear commitments from international partners.

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What rules apply in Ukraine during martial law?

1. Restrictions on freedom of movement

- curfew;

- control at checkpoints;

- intensified document checks and inspections.

2. Ban on holding mass events

- Restrictions on rallies, demonstrations and other public gatherings;

- Possibility of banning political rallies.

3. Mobilisation and restrictions on travelling abroad

- Conscription of citizens for military service within the framework of mobilisation;

- Prohibition or restrictions on the travelling of certain categories of persons (men liable for military service) outside the country.

Therefore, if you decide to come to Ukraine, we recommend that you prepare in advance and familiarise yourself with the wartime rules. The key insurance for visiting Ukraine is an insurance policy covering military risks. Visit Ukraine offers a quick and convenient way to arrange health insurance with military risk coverage. With us, you can buy insurance online and receive an electronic policy by email immediately after payment. We cooperate with reliable Ukrainian insurers and offer favourable insurance conditions for foreign citizens.

We remind you! We told you how to plan a trip to Ukraine during the war.

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