Ukraine at a Crossroads: Zelensky Losing, Zaluzhny Threatening!
Ukraine is holding presidential elections today, but poll results are a cold shower for the current president Volodymyr Zelensky. More than 57% of Ukrainians believe elections should only be held after a ceasefire agreement is reached and martial law is lifted.
A poll by the Ukrainian Barometer of Public Opinion shows that only 30.9% of decided voters support Zelensky, while former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Valeriy Zaluzhny is close behind with 27.7%. In a hypothetical second round, Zaluzhny would win with 60.5% of decided voters’ votes, compared to Zelensky’s 39.5%. Among all respondents, Zaluzhny leads with 41.4% versus Zelensky’s 27%.
This is a shock for Zelensky, who has so far been a symbol of resistance and hope in Ukraine. Has the war exhausted trust in his ability to lead the country? Do Ukrainians want the military strength and decisiveness that Zaluzhny represents?
Zaluzhny is also the top second-choice candidate, meaning voters who do not support their first choice most often pick him as their backup option.
The poll was conducted in partnership with the Janus Institute for Strategic Studies and the Socis Center for Social Research, covering only those who have decided to vote.
In light of these results, the question is whether the elections will be held now or postponed until peace is achieved. After all, most Ukrainians say elections during wartime are not the right choice.
Interestingly, martial law is still in effect, and borders are guarded by barbed wire fences, while shopping centers and restaurants that once bustled with Russian visitors are now silent.
If the situation does not change, Ukraine could face a leadership change, which could have major consequences for the course of the war and the country’s future.
So, what do you think? Who’s your favorite? Do you believe Zaluzhny will really take power? Or is Zelensky still unbeatable? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
