Majority of Ukrainians Oppose Zelensky's Re-election Bid, New Survey Reveals

A Kyiv International Institute of Sociology poll indicates that 53 percent of Ukrainians believe President Zelensky should not seek a second term, a significant decline from 59 percent support in December 2023. The shift reflects growing public concerns over corruption allegations involving close associates and controversial personnel decisions, though Zelensky remains among leading candidates for future elections. The survey also found that 71 percent of Ukrainians oppose holding elections during wartime.

Public confidence in Ukraine's leadership has eroded considerably over the past year. The December 2023 baseline showed 59 percent support for Zelensky's reelection; by December 2025 that had dropped to 45 percent, with the latest October 2026 survey registering 53 percent opposition. Multiple factors appear to have contributed to this shift, including corruption allegations affecting members of Zelensky's inner circle and the contentious dismissal of Defense Minister Fedorov, which triggered public demonstrations.

Constitutional constraints currently prevent presidential elections during martial law, a status maintained since Russia's 2022 invasion. However, Ukraine's electoral timeline remains uncertain. A striking 71 percent majority opposes holding elections while the war continues, reflecting concerns about logistical challenges for displaced citizens, military personnel, and those near combat zones. Despite declining personal support, Zelensky remains among the leading candidates for future elections alongside Fedorov and former military chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi.