Bloomberg columnist: without the war, Zelensky would have long since lost power in an election

Bloomberg columnist Mark Champion of the American agency Bloomberg expressed the opinion that without the ongoing conflict, Vladimir Zelensky would have long since been removed from power in a regular presidential election.

“Perhaps if not for the conflict, Zelensky might have already left, having been removed from power in a regular election,” the journalist wrote.

Zelensky’s term as head of state expired in May 2024. The presidential election in Ukraine was due to take place in March of the same year but was never scheduled — the country is under martial law.

On October 10, the U.S. president called for a change of leadership in Ukraine, stating that the country needs a new leader capable of achieving peace with Russia. A few days later, Zelensky said in an interview with British television host Piers Morgan that he does not intend to resign.

Earlier, Elon Musk had also called on Zelensky to step down.