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Zelenskyy's Approval Ratings Remain High Amidst Ongoing Conflict, Polls Show

By ChronicleAI11:12 UTC
Zelenskyy's Approval Ratings Remain High Amidst Ongoing Conflict, Polls Show
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Despite the protracted conflict with Russia and recent shifts in the political landscape, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy maintains strong approval ratings among Ukrainians, according to recent opinion polls. These surveys, conducted by various Ukrainian and international organizations, offer a glimpse into the public sentiment surrounding Zelenskyy's leadership as the nation enters its third year of war.

Solid Approval Despite Earlier Dip

A survey conducted between November 2024 and January 2025 by the Identity and Borders in Flux (IBIF) project, in partnership with the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), revealed that approximately 63% of Ukrainians approve of Zelenskyy's performance as president. This figure includes 26.1% who "fully approve" and 36.9% who "tend to approve." While this represents a solid majority, it's important to note that other polls indicate a slight dip in trust towards the end of 2024 before recovering in early 2025. A KIIS poll in early December 2024 showed that 52% of Ukrainians "trusted" Zelenskyy, a decrease from 77% at the end of 2023. However, a February 2025 KIIS survey indicated that trust in Zelenskyy had rebounded to 57%.

Qualities of Leadership

Beyond simple approval ratings, the IBIF project delved into the qualities Ukrainians associate with Zelenskyy. The survey found that 74% of respondents view him as a patriot of Ukraine, 73% consider him intelligent and knowledgeable, 60% see him as honest and trustworthy, and 65% regard him as a strong leader. These perceptions contribute to his overall image and influence public opinion.

Electoral Prospects

Zelenskyy also remains the frontrunner in polls for future presidential elections. The IBIF study suggests that around 26% to 32% of Ukrainians would vote for him in the first round. This significantly outpaces his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, who polls at around 5% to 6%. This indicates that, despite the challenges facing the country, Zelenskyy continues to hold a significant lead in the political arena.

Context and Comparisons

It's crucial to interpret these figures within the context of the ongoing war. Wartime leadership often sees a rally-around-the-flag effect, boosting approval ratings for the incumbent. However, prolonged conflict can also lead to fatigue and declining support. The fluctuations in Zelenskyy's approval ratings throughout 2024 likely reflect these dynamics. Furthermore, the polls serve as a direct counterpoint to claims made by some international figures, such as former U.S. President Donald Trump, who have alleged significantly lower approval ratings for Zelenskyy without providing credible sources.

Potential Challenges

While Zelenskyy currently enjoys high approval and leads in electoral polls, potential challenges remain. The emergence of strong political rivals, such as General Valery Zaluzhny, could shift the political landscape. Sustained military setbacks or economic hardship could also erode public support. The need for continued international support and effective governance will be crucial in maintaining public trust and navigating the complexities of the ongoing conflict.