The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) critically assesses Russia's proposal for a UN transitional administration in Ukraine, suggesting Moscow will reject any government not aligned with its interests. Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Galusin reiterated on February 15th, 2026, claims of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's illegitimacy and revived Putin's March 2025 proposal for UN oversight. This UN administration, according to Russia, could facilitate "democratic" elections and a government with which Russia could sign a peace treaty. However, ISW analysts argue this implicitly questions Ukraine's current leadership's ability to make legitimate agreements and represents a rejection of Ukraine's sovereignty. Russia aims to weaken Ukrainian authorities' influence on elections by demanding them before a peace deal, signaling an intent to reject any outcome not resulting in a pro-Russian government.