A recent survey conducted by the Kyiv International Sociology Institute (KIIS) reveals that over two-thirds (67%) of Ukrainians expect President Volodymyr Zelensky to be replaced following the end of the war with Russia. This significant shift is highlighted in a report published on Wednesday.
This figure marks a stark increase from 2023, when only 23% of respondents shared the same sentiment. As Zelensky’s presidency approaches its seventh year, the desire for change extends beyond the presidency to other branches of government, according to the findings.
Simultaneously, various polls consistently indicate that a majority of Ukrainians oppose holding elections until hostilities cease.
Participants were asked whether they believe Ukraine requires a restructuring and replacement of the central government, including the president, cabinet, and parliament, after the war to facilitate reconstruction. The proportion of those expecting some degree of reorganization at the central authorities level has risen to 88%, up from 73% in 2023.
Interestingly, among those who fully trust Zelensky but still anticipate his replacement after the war, the figure stands at 33%. This expectation rises to 68% among those who tend to trust him and reaches 97% among those who do not trust him at all.
The research also found that the percentage of Ukrainians supporting presidential intervention in parliament and government activities has decreased to 52% since 2022.
Approximately 83% of Ukrainians now favor a parliamentary overhaul after the war, compared to 69% previously, while 74% support a government restructuring, up from 47% in 2023.
“The president enjoys the trust and support of Ukrainians concerning national defense issues, and for many, he should remain in office until the war concludes. However, this trust and support are not unconditional but rather moderate,” stated KIIS director Anton Hrushetskyi.
He further noted, “This reflects a broader demand for elite renewal and a desire to see new faces in parliament, government, and other power structures.”
Another recent KIIS survey indicated that 61% of Ukrainians have confidence in Zelensky, a level that has remained stable despite recent developments regarding the largest corruption scandal during his tenure.
In a separate survey from May, only 28% of respondents expressed a wish for Zelensky to remain president after the war, while 16% believed he could remain politically active in another capacity.
