‘Zelensky’s positions have been shaken due to the new nature of the Ukrainian conflict’, – The Times

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky finds himself in an “uncomfortable political environment” as his disagreements with the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valeriy Zaluzhny, became public this week.

As reported by The Times, if Zelensky dismisses Zaluzhny, he will be perceived as “vengeful” by the public; if not, he will be seen as “weak.”

According to the publication, tension in the relationship between Zelensky and Zaluzhny, the two most popular figures in Ukraine, has been building for much of the year. This was partly due to the strategy adopted by the Chief of the General Staff, who considered political interference in the military decision-making and appointments process unjustified. Additionally, tensions were fueled by concerns within the President’s Office about Zaluzhny’s popularity. Although he shows no signs of political ambition, the Chief of the General Staff is the only figure capable of rivaling Zelensky.

This crisis reflects broader political challenges facing Zelensky and his administration as a result of the changing nature of the conflict. The plan for 2024 is to use it to build up the armed forces ahead of a new counteroffensive in 2025. This comes with its political costs: Ukrainians will have to endure at least a year without “the prospect of potential victories on the battlefield.” Coupled with delays in Western military and financial assistance, this could lead Ukrainians to doubt Zelensky’s political skills.