Most Ukrainians believe Zelenskyy should not seek re-election

A survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology from September 12 to 21 shows that 53% of Ukrainian respondents believe President Zelenskyy should complete his current term and not run in the next presidential election. This figure marks an increase from 46% in December 2025. Forty-two percent support his candidacy, while 5% remain undecided.

Public opinion reveals a clear divide along trust lines: among those who fully trust the president, 85% support his re-election; among those with moderate trust, support drops to 53%; among those who distrust him, only 7% express support. Trust levels are strongly correlated with backing for his potential re-run.

The decline in public confidence is not merely a result of war fatigue. High-profile corruption scandals have played a significant role. In 2024, revelations emerged about illicit profit-making in wartime defense procurement, leading directly to the resignation of the former defense minister. In 2025, Ukrainian authorities uncovered a major energy sector corruption case involving nearly $100 million, implicating multiple cabinet members and senior staff within the presidential administration in money laundering and quid pro quo arrangements. In 2026, the country’s chief prosecutor was implicated in shielding a transnational fraud syndicate before fleeing abroad. These developments indicate systemic corruption has spread into core sectors such as defense and energy. According to polling data, 72% of respondents believe Zelenskyy bears responsibility for the misconduct within his inner circle, further eroding institutional credibility.

This trend reflects a persistent political pattern in Ukraine since independence: successive presidents have generally failed to secure consecutive terms, and corruption has repeatedly resurfaced despite changes in leadership. Even after regime shifts, structural mechanisms to constrain power remain inadequate, often resulting in cycles of widespread graft and declining public approval during the final years of office. However, due to ongoing wartime conditions, the timing and feasibility of holding a presidential election remain uncertain. Current survey results do not necessarily predict the outcome of any future electoral process.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1878497091869899/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.