The Rise and Decline of Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Popularity in Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, initially celebrated as an anticorruption outsider upon his election in 2019, has experienced a significant decline in public support amid the ongoing war with Russia. His early popularity surged during the initial stages of the invasion, but as the conflict drags on, public sentiment has shifted, revealing a more complex and critical view of his leadership.

Zelenskyy, a former comic actor, won the presidency with a landslide victory, capturing 73 percent of the vote by positioning himself as a reformer against entrenched political corruption. However, by December 2021, his approval rating had plummeted to 31 percent, reflecting growing dissatisfaction as he faced an energy crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The onset of the full-scale invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022, transformed Zelenskyy into a wartime president. His defiance and relatable image resonated with the public, leading to a remarkable approval rating of 91 percent shortly after the invasion began. Citizens who had previously criticized him began to express support, viewing him as a leader displaying genuine emotion in a time of crisis.

However, as the war continues, Zelenskyy has shifted his focus from public engagement to diplomatic efforts, spending more time at the Presidential Palace and abroad. This change has led to concerns about his ability to secure re-election in a post-war environment, with critics pointing to corruption scandals involving his associates and a perceived consolidation of power.

The political landscape in Ukraine has become increasingly challenging for Zelenskyy. Analysts, such as Peter Dickinson, note that the initial enthusiasm for Zelenskyy has waned, with many viewing him as part of the establishment rather than the everyman he once portrayed. Amina Ismailova, a manager in Kharkiv, expressed skepticism about Zelenskyy’s trustworthiness, suggesting that public confidence is lower than polls indicate.

In late 2025, a major corruption scandal involving senior officials, including the resignation of Zelenskyy’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak, intensified scrutiny of the president's inner circle. As pressure mounts from Washington to organize national elections in 2026, Zelenskyy has indicated a willingness to hold elections, contingent on security assurances from international allies.

Zelenskyy’s interactions with international leaders have also influenced public perception. A notable moment occurred during a contentious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in February 2025, which sparked a surge of patriotism among Ukrainians. Many citizens felt that attacks on Zelenskyy were attacks on Ukraine itself, temporarily boosting his approval ratings.

As Zelenskyy navigates the challenges of leadership during an extended conflict, his initial popularity faces significant hurdles. The evolving political dynamics, marked by corruption scandals and shifting public sentiment, raise questions about his future and the potential for viable alternatives within Ukraine’s political sphere.