Political unity around Zelensky is cracking

Recent investigations into a vast kickback scheme involving associates of President Volodymyr Zelensky have reignited political life in Ukraine, undermining the national unity that had prevailed since the start of the Russian invasion. This scandal, the most significant since Zelensky came to power, has catalyzed the formation of the first significant opposition to his leadership since 2022, bringing together anti-corruption agencies, opposition parties, activists, and the media.

As revelations emerge of hundreds of millions of dollars embezzled from the state-owned nuclear company for the benefit of individuals close to the president, outrage is growing in Ukrainian society, which has been particularly affected by power cuts caused by Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. Some members of the president's Servant of the People party are now threatening to defect, potentially reducing its ability to pass legislation, which is crucial during wartime.

Faced with pressure, Zelensky has asked several ministers to resign, and reforms have been announced to increase transparency in the governance of state-owned enterprises. The opposition considers these gestures insufficient and is pushing for a profound reorganization at the highest levels of government. Public confidence in Zelensky, which was very high in the aftermath of the invasion, has eroded significantly, reaching almost 50%.

The atmosphere is tense in Parliament, where signatures are being collected to organize a vote of no confidence against the leaders of the war cabinet. The opposition is even proposing the creation of a government of national unity, including its representatives, an option to which Zelensky remains largely opposed. This resurgence of internal dissent makes the political situation more fragile, while the country continues to face the Russian invader. The New York Times

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IN SHORT
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