Zelenskyy Discusses Election Possibility Amidst Shifting Polls; Power Struggle Underway

A high-level meeting at the Ukrainian president's residence, unused since the full-scale war began, brought together Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key political figures. The four-hour discussion focused on Ukraine's political future, including the feasibility and timing of presidential elections.

Sources indicate the latter half of the meeting was crucial, addressing whether elections could be held and who might run. Berlingske's security correspondent, Simon Kruse, noted the public's desire for an election to "cleanse the air," but emphasized the impossibility of holding one while the country faces constant missile attacks. "The power struggle is underway," Kruse stated.

“

One should not underestimate the hunger in Ukraine for an election that can cleanse the air. The question is just when it can be held. It cannot be held as long as drones and ballistic missiles rain down on the country's cities.

The discussions were informed by a new government-commissioned poll, reportedly showing a slight but steady increase in Zelenskyy's support, reaching 33%. This marks the first significant gain in a long time. However, former army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, now Ukraine's ambassador to the UK, trails at 22%, suggesting a competitive political landscape.

This uptick in Zelenskyy's approval may prompt discussions about holding elections in November. The president might aim to capitalize on this momentum. Yet, victory is not guaranteed. If Zelenskyy faces Zaluzhnyi in a runoff, the former army chief is projected to win. The potential candidacy of Zelenskyy's own chief of staff, Kyrylo Budanov, further complicates the electoral outlook, as he is only a few percentage points behind in the polls.

“

But the power struggle is underway.