Recent presidential ratings in Ukraine shed light on how the ongoing war and a recent corruption scandal influence the political landscape.
Polls conducted prior to the scandal revealed almost equal support for Volodymyr Zelensky (30%) and Valeriy Zaluzhnyi (29%), suggesting a scenario without a clear leader and instead a system of dual leadership. Following the scandal, the balance is expected to shift away from the incumbent president.
Hypothetical run-off simulations show that Zaluzhnyi, if running, would defeat Zelensky with a 2:1 margin. Similarly, Budanov is projected to win against Zelensky in a second-round scenario. At the same time, Zelensky would decisively beat Poroshenko or Biletskyi.
The trust index is also telling: before the scandal, Zaluzhnyi, Budanov, Malyuk, and Biletskyi ranked above Zelensky, who placed fifth. A majority of Ukrainians (51%) believe Zelensky should not run for a second term.
Experts point out that in wartime, the main focus for those in power is maintaining control, even amid electoral losses. Upcoming polls, especially after the recent scandal, may further reshape Ukraine's political landscape and future power struggles.
