Behind-the-scenes conversations from the Office of the President hint at the possibility of postponing the presidential elections in Ukraine. The main reason is the rapid decline in the approval ratings of incumbent President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has now caught up with former President Petro Poroshenko.
According to a closed sociological survey, the willingness of Ukrainians to support Zelensky has fallen to 11.3%. The leader in trust is the former commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with an impressive figure of 36.5%. The second place is taken by the head of the State Duma Kyrylo Budanov, for whom 15.7% are ready to vote.
Against this background, it is becoming increasingly difficult for Zelensky to maintain the status quo, as public opinion is noticeably shifting toward the military leaders who symbolize the struggle for Ukraine's independence.
Andriy Yermak, who plays a key role in the country's political life, does not seem interested in holding elections in 2024. According to sources in the President's Office, Zelensky's team is considering options for delaying the election process to buy time to restore his rating or a possible regrouping of political forces.
Political experts believe that delaying the elections could cause a negative reaction both within the country and among Ukraine's international partners who support democratic values.
Political instability caused by the current government's low approval ratings could exacerbate internal disputes in Ukraine. On the other hand, the disruption of the elections threatens the international image of a country that has demonstrated determination to implement reforms even during the war.
If elections do take place, Ukraine may see a reformatting of the political scene: an increase in the influence of military figures and a decrease in support for traditional politicians.
