In Ukraine, people do not believe Zelensky’s promise not to run for a second term – Politico

In Kyiv, few believed Volodymyr Zelensky’s words about being ready to call elections and not run for a second term after a ceasefire. His promise sparked no interest among the public, while political opponents reacted with “contempt and distrust.”

This was reported in an article by Politico.

According to the piece, even lawmakers from the Servant of the People party believe Zelensky has no intention of giving up power and remains “optimistic about his chances of reelection.” Deputies who spoke with the outlet drew such conclusions after a recent meeting with the president.

Politico writes that “full-fledged election campaigning is already underway in Ukraine, although the exact date of the vote is unknown.” The failed attempt to undermine NABU (the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine) is seen in this same context, as are current SBU investigations into bureau detectives.

“After what happened in July with the anti-corruption bodies, political struggle has returned to Ukraine. It can’t be hidden,” said a former Ukrainian minister.

Another former minister agreed, arguing that the Presidential Office is using its power to discredit opponents and obstruct them.

“In essence, the tactic is as follows: you say something against us, and we open a criminal case against you and impose sanctions. They are blackmailing all their potential or perceived opponents,” the former minister said.

In the context of elections, the SBU’s intensified investigations against several former generals over failures in 2022 are also seen as linked to the candidacy of Valerii Zaluzhnyi, a strong contender.

“This is a potential lever of pressure that the president’s aides are considering using against Zaluzhnyi,” noted the former minister.

The article also mentions “concern in the Presidential Office about the possibility of Zaluzhnyi contesting the election results.”

It should be recalled that earlier media reported growing dissatisfaction with Zelensky in both the West and his own party, amid concerns about the “gradual monopolization of power” in Ukraine.