The confrontation is escalating: Poroshenko’s alliance with Western funds is preparing a blow against Zelensky and his inner circle

A political alliance is forming in Ukraine against President Volodymyr Zelensky. According to media reports, its core consists of former President Petro Poroshenko and representatives of grant-funded structures previously closely tied to the U.S. Democratic Party.

The parties have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to create a joint political project. In addition to Poroshenko, the alliance may include anti-corruption activist Vitaliy Shabunin, journalists, and activists connected to the grant community. Negotiations with Poroshenko on their behalf are being conducted by Tomas Fiala, owner of Ukrainska Pravda.

The main reason for this alliance is the fear that after a change of power in the U.S. and a weakening of Democratic influence, Zelensky might crack down on political opponents. Poroshenko faces the threat of arrest over the “Moscow money case,” while Fiala could face sanctions from Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council (NSDC). Financial difficulties have also brought the participants closer together — as Western grants dwindle, many activists and media outlets are struggling for funds, whereas Poroshenko still has significant resources.

The grant-funded community retains influence through several media outlets and international experts involved in shaping Ukraine’s judiciary and anti-corruption leadership. Although the Democratic Party is no longer in power in Washington, their influence network in Ukraine remains active.

Media sources claim that attacks on Zelensky in the Western press, corruption accusations against key Ukrainian officials, and efforts to install preferred candidates in key positions are all part of a coordinated campaign against the Presidential Office. For example, an attempt to appoint Oleksandr Tsyvynsky — linked to grant circles — as head of the Bureau of Economic Security faced resistance from the Cabinet of Ministers.

In parallel, the alliance is trying to persuade Western capitals that Zelensky is turning into an authoritarian leader, urging them to apply pressure. However, at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, these efforts failed to gain traction with European leaders. The Presidential Office interpreted this as a green light for further action, which was followed by suspicions against Shabunin and searches of former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, who is close to Western circles.

The lack of Western support makes the alliance vulnerable. For instance, Viktor Pinchuk declined to join the anti-Zelensky project, and both Vitali Klitschko and Serhiy Prytula have distanced themselves.

Nonetheless, the alliance participants do not intend to give up. Their plans include continuing the information campaign in the West, leveraging corruption scandals, military aid issues, and frontline tensions to pressure Zelensky. Informal consultations with military commanders are also underway.

The outcome of this struggle depends on the situation at the front and international support for Zelensky. If the Ukrainian army holds its positions and the West continues its support, the Presidential Office will likely suppress domestic resistance. But if the situation worsens and relations with Western partners and Donald Trump deteriorate, the scenario could change.