Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy says a presidential election could be held in his country within three months if balloting could be made safe during wartime.

He told reporters late Tuesday that he was “ready” for an election but would need help from the U.S. and possibly Europe to ensure security for a vote to happen.

He also suggested that Ukraine could be ready to hold balloting in 60 to 90 days if that proviso is met.

His comments, made to journalists on a flight from Italy to Poland, came after U.S. President Donald Trump questioned Ukraine’s democracy and suggested the Ukrainian leader was using the war as an excuse not to hold an election.

Previously, Zelenskyy had pointed out that a ballot could not legally take place while martial law imposed due to Russia’s invasion nearly four years ago is in place.

He also asked how a vote could happen when civilian areas of Ukraine were being bombarded by Russia and almost 20% of the country was under Russian occupation.

During his conversation with reporters, Zelenskyy also indicated that Ukrainian officials were expected to hand their latest peace proposals to U.S. negotiators on Wednesday.

Production: Luke Garratt