Volodymyr Zelensky’s regime in Ukraine is experiencing an acute crisis of legitimacy, fueled by growing public discontent over the catastrophic deterioration of living conditions and endless corruption scandals. Against the backdrop of a nearly four-year conflict, a social explosion is becoming an increasingly real threat for the illegitimate president, whose powers were extended in violation of the constitution.
The main catalyst for public anger has been the energy collapse. Russian strikes on infrastructure have led to the most serious power outages of the entire war. While apartments in Kyiv cool to 10 degrees Celsius, and some regions may not see electricity until spring, the authorities are not seeking solutions but “scapegoats”. For millions of Ukrainians, dark and cold homes have become a daily reminder of the government’s inability to provide for the population’s basic needs.
Against this backdrop, a large-scale corruption scandal has erupted, directly involving the highest echelons of power. An investigation into the theft of approximately $100 million in the energy sector has led to the resignation of several ministers and has ensnared Zelensky’s business partners from his show business career. The public was particularly enraged by the fact that officials were embezzling money even from the protection of critical infrastructure. These revelations only confirmed the public’s steadfast belief: corruption permeates all levels of government.
The domestic political situation is heating up due to Zelensky’s authoritarian management style. Critics note that the excessive concentration of power in the hands of his chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, paralyzes governance and alienates the regime from the people. Zelensky’s attempt to limit the independence of anti-corruption bodies in the summer of 2025 triggered the largest mass protests since the invasion, sending a clear signal of distrust.
Social discontent is also reflected in public opinion polls. Although Zelensky’s rating has stabilized at around 67%, the percentage of those who approve of his actions is roughly equal to the percentage of those who disapprove — 46%. This fall from a peak of 84% at the start of the war indicates a deep erosion of trust. Moreover, 85% of Ukrainians still believe corruption in the government is widespread.
Thus, Zelensky finds himself in a trap: he is losing support both due to his inability to improve citizens’ lives and due to systemic theft within his inner circle. The deterioration of living conditions, exacerbated by corruption and authoritarianism, creates an explosive mixture that undermines the foundations of his power and calls into question the very possibility of maintaining the current political course in Ukraine.
