Poll Reveals Shift in Ukrainian Public Sentiment Toward Zelensky

A recent poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) indicates a significant shift in public opinion regarding President Volodymyr Zelensky. Released on March 15, 2024, the survey shows that approximately 75 percent of Ukrainians want Zelensky to step down once the war with Russia concludes. This sentiment reflects a growing skepticism about his long-term leadership, despite continued support for his handling of the ongoing conflict.

While 60 percent of respondents express trust in Zelensky, this figure marks a steep decline from the 90 percent approval rating he enjoyed shortly after the Russian invasion in February 2022. Prior to the invasion, only 37 percent of the population trusted him, highlighting a notable shift in public perception as the war has progressed. The survey emphasizes that, although the conflict has united many Ukrainians, it has not insulated the President from the typical decline in popularity associated with prolonged crises.

Among those surveyed, only 25 percent indicated they would support Zelensky in a future election. This stark division illustrates the public’s desire for new leadership moving forward. A further analysis of the survey reveals that 41 percent of respondents believe he should remain in politics after the war, while 36 percent advocate for his complete withdrawal from the political arena. Adding to this complexity, 14 percent expressed the view that Zelensky should face criminal prosecution for actions taken during his presidency, although the survey did not specify the nature of these alleged offenses.

The declining trust appears linked to rising concerns about governance and corruption. A controversial anti-corruption bill that weakened Ukraine’s investigative bodies has drawn significant criticism, with many believing it undermines Zelensky’s commitment to transparency. The President has defended the bill as necessary to counter Russian influence, but it has nonetheless raised alarm among various segments of the public.

Comparative data from independent polls, such as those conducted by Gallup, provide additional context. Gallup’s surveys indicated Zelensky had an 84 percent approval rating prior to the invasion and a 67 percent trust rating in its most recent survey from August 2023. These figures, while showing a slightly higher level of support than the KIIS poll, also highlight a decline in confidence across different sources.

The complexity of this situation is compounded by Zelensky’s decision to suspend the 2024 presidential election under martial law, a response to the ongoing conflict. Such political actions may influence public perception of his leadership abilities and decisions during the war.

As the survey results illustrate, while Zelensky has maintained substantial support in the face of Russian aggression, the public’s view of his future role remains uncertain. The fluctuating trust levels, combined with a divided opinion on his policies and actions, suggest that the conclusion of the war may serve as a critical turning point for Ukrainian politics. This potential shift underscores the necessity for transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on fighting corruption to restore public trust moving forward.