Zelensky's trust rating falls to 58% after scandal

President Zelensky faces declining approval following controversy over anti-corruption agencies.

Zelensky's trust rating falls amid anti-corruption scandal

A recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology shows a decline in trust for President Volodymyr Zelensky, dropping from 65% in June to 58% in early August. This shift follows the signing of a controversial law that attempted to subordinate Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies to the prosecutor general. The backlash included widespread protests and international condemnation, leading Zelensky to quickly reverse this decision. Despite restoring the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, the scandal's impact remains evident, with distrust among Ukrainians growing from 30% to 35%. Experts point to ongoing concerns over systemic corruption, a sentiment echoed in the survey responses, as central to this decline.

The drop in Zelensky's approval is significant as it reflects deeper societal concerns about corruption and government accountability. The July protests were notable for breaking a long-standing taboo against public dissent in Ukraine, indicating that discontent could lead to greater instability. As elections approach, the reduced trust may complicate Zelensky's path to reelection and impact his party's prospects in parliamentary elections. The need for strong governance in the midst of ongoing conflict with Russia further complicates the situation, making public perception critical for Ukraine's political landscape. Should trust continue to erode, support from Western allies, already tenuous in light of these developments, might also wane.

Highlights

The unfolding political climate in Ukraine will be pivotal as Zelensky navigates the challenges ahead.