**Putin Again Questions Zelensky’s Legitimacy**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is “illegitimate” and should not be allowed to sign any documents in potential peace negotiations. This claim was made in an interview with Rossiya 1, a Russian state TV channel.
Putin believes that since Zelensky’s term as president ended on May 20, 2024, he cannot lift his ban on negotiations with Russia. The decree banning negotiations should be revoked by the speaker of Ukraine’s parliament before any talks can begin. However, leading constitutional lawyers in Ukraine dispute this claim and say that Zelensky remains a legitimate president.
This is not the first time Putin has made claims about Zelensky’s legitimacy. Russia has widely used this claim in its propaganda to discredit the Ukrainian government. Major Ukrainian constitutional lawyers believe the claim is false and unfounded.
**Background**
Under martial law, presidential elections were banned in Ukraine after Russia launched a full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. This meant that Zelensky’s term as president was extended until further notice. Some critics argue that this extension is not authorized by the Constitution, but leading constitutional lawyers say it is allowed.
**Reaction from Zelensky**
Zelensky responded to Putin’s claims by saying that the Russian president is afraid of negotiations and strong leaders. He believes that every step Putin takes is aimed at making the war in Ukraine endless.
**International Reaction**
Meanwhile, international leaders are continuing to support Ukraine in its efforts to resist Russia’s aggression. The Italian Senate has approved a measure to provide military aid to Ukraine. NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary-General James Appathurai confirmed threats against Rheinmetall’s CEO and said that the alliance is committed to supporting Ukraine.
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