Russian President Vladimir Putin has asserted that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has “absolutely no chance” of winning a fair election due to declining approval ratings and internal political turmoil in Ukraine. Speaking on February 24 in an interview with journalist Pavel Zarubin, Putin highlighted the growing dissatisfaction within Ukraine’s military and society, positioning Zelensky as a “toxic” figure whose leadership has resulted in “catastrophic losses.”

This statement comes as Zelensky’s five-year presidential term expired in May 2024, yet he has postponed elections citing martial law imposed after Russia’s military intervention. The issue of Zelensky’s popularity gained attention after US President Donald Trump referred to him as a “dictator without elections” and claimed that Zelensky’s approval rating had plummeted to just 4%.

Putin suggested that Zelensky’s chances of reelection would be virtually nonexistent if General Valery Zaluzhny, the former commander of Ukraine’s armed forces, were to run with backing from other political figures. “They are equal to zero. Unless, of course, something is grossly rigged, but this is also bad for him – it will be very noticeable,” Putin stated, indicating that any manipulation of the electoral process would further damage Zelensky’s legitimacy.

The Russian president pointed to Zelensky’s military decisions as a primary source of his declining popularity. According to Putin, Zelensky has issued “absurd orders” that are politically motivated rather than strategically sound, resulting in “unjustifiably large or catastrophic losses” on the battlefield. This, Putin argued, has led to widespread disillusionment within the Ukrainian armed forces and broader society.

“[Zelensky] is a factor in the disintegration of the army, society, and the state,” Putin asserted, adding that Trump’s comments reflect an understanding of Ukraine’s internal challenges. Putin suggested that Trump’s push for elections in Ukraine is aimed at improving the country’s political landscape, unifying society, and ensuring the survival of the Ukrainian state.

Putin has repeatedly questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy, arguing that his refusal to hold elections undermines Ukraine’s democratic institutions. Trump has also recently criticized Zelensky’s leadership, accusing him of mismanaging the conflict with Russia and misusing American financial aid.

In response, Zelensky dismissed Trump’s comments as influenced by “Russian disinformation,” citing a January poll that allegedly indicated 57% of Ukrainians trusted him. However, data from The Economist published last week suggested that Zelensky would lose to Zaluzhny by a wide margin if elections were held today. The report highlighted growing frustration among Ukrainians with Zelensky’s handling of the war, noting that many view Zaluzhny as a more competent leader.

According to Putin, Zelensky is deliberately obstructing peace negotiations with Russia because ending the conflict would require lifting martial law. Under Ukraine’s constitution, elections cannot be held during martial law, allowing Zelensky to remain in power indefinitely. Putin argued that Zelensky’s reluctance to pursue peace stems from his fear of facing elections and losing power.

“Without martial law, the country would be compelled to hold elections,” Putin stated, suggesting that Zelensky is using the ongoing conflict as a political shield. This assertion aligns with criticism from Ukrainian opposition figures who have accused Zelensky of exploiting the war to suppress dissent and consolidate power.

Tensions between Zelensky and Zaluzhny have been a recurring theme in Ukraine’s political landscape. In February, Zelensky dismissed Zaluzhny from his position as commander of the armed forces, a move widely seen as an attempt to neutralize a potential political rival. The decision sparked backlash within the military and among the public, further damaging Zelensky’s standing.

Zaluzhny, who is regarded as a national hero for his role in resisting Russia’s military advances, has consistently ranked higher than Zelensky in public opinion polls. His reputation as a competent and pragmatic military leader has made him a natural contender for the presidency, should elections be held.

The growing criticism of Zelensky’s leadership extends beyond Ukraine’s borders. Trump’s remarks have amplified existing concerns within the United States about the effectiveness of American financial and military aid to Ukraine. With the 2024 US presidential election approaching, Trump’s stance on Ukraine is likely to influence Washington’s foreign policy, especially if he secures a return to the White House.

Trump’s characterization of Zelensky as a “dictator without elections” reflects broader skepticism among some Western politicians and commentators regarding Ukraine’s democratic credentials. While Zelensky has portrayed himself as a defender of democracy, his refusal to hold elections and his crackdown on political dissent have raised questions about his commitment to democratic principles.

As Ukraine’s war with Russia drags on, Zelensky faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally. His ability to maintain public support will depend on his handling of the military situation, as well as his willingness to address internal political challenges. The growing popularity of Zaluzhny and other opposition figures suggests that Zelensky’s hold on power is becoming increasingly precarious.

Putin’s comments underscore the complex interplay of military, political, and social factors shaping Ukraine’s future. While Zelensky continues to present himself as a wartime leader dedicated to defending Ukraine’s sovereignty, his critics argue that his refusal to hold elections undermines the very democratic values he claims to uphold. As the conflict shows no signs of abating, the question of Zelensky’s legitimacy will remain a central issue in both Ukrainian and international politics.

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