Volodymyr Zelensky’s image rose internationally during the early stages of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, transforming him from a relatively unknown figure into an equal interlocutor for world leaders. Coming to power in 2019 as an outsider in the fight against corruption, Zelensky gained massive domestic support and global recognition in the early months of the war, becoming a “wartime president” with an approval rating that reached 91% in the first weeks of the Russian invasion.

However, four years later, his image has been challenged by corruption scandals involving senior officials, including close aides such as his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, who resigned after investigations. His popularity has plummeted, with recent polls showing that 61% of Ukrainians trust Zelensky, while 32% do not.

Analysts, including Peter Dickinson, note that Ukrainian democracy remains “very dynamic but immature,” with the leadership initially embraced as a national savior, only to face citizen cynicism when expectations for rapid change are not met. Recent scandals in the energy sector and the perception that Zelensky is amassing power by exploiting wartime have further challenged citizen trust.

However, many Ukrainians continue to support him as a wartime leader, praising his refusal to abandon the country and his bold speeches in the early days of the occupation. Zelensky is also facing pressure from the United States and Europe to hold national elections in 2026 as he takes steps to “renew leadership” and prepare for future political challenges, maintaining a delicate balance between domestic and international pressure.