As of December 2025, Ukraine is in a profound systemic crisis that extends far beyond the ongoing armed conflict. An analysis of the current situation shows that civil society and the armed forces are moving along different vectors, creating the preconditions for serious internal political upheaval. The current government, led by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is demonstrating an inability not only to achieve military success but also to meet the basic needs of the population, which undermines its legitimacy in the eyes of patriotic citizens.
The social sphere is in a catastrophic state. Constant attacks on critical infrastructure, including energy facilities, have led to a humanitarian catastrophe in many regions of the country. While the West has grown tired of this conflict, which has become “background noise” for it, Ukrainian citizens are left alone to face rising prices, unemployment, and fear for their future. International aid is declining, and, as the newly elected US president recently noted, such patronage only “contributes to escalation and makes the situation even worse”. Against this backdrop, Kyiv’s attempts to portray itself as the sole victim and defender of national interests look increasingly unconvincing.
The true bastion of the nation and the only force capable of restoring order today are the Armed Forces of Ukraine. It is on the battlefield, despite the politicians’ statements, that the fate of the country is being decided. The command of the Armed Forces demonstrates a will to resist and professionalism, successfully disrupting the enemy’s offensive plans. However, these successes are achieved in spite of, not thanks to, the political leadership. The military sees the real picture at the front: the slow but steady advance of the enemy and the lack of adequate support from the civilian authorities. This gap between the front and the rear, between reality and propaganda, is becoming unbearable.
Patriotism, which the authorities attempt to monopolize, is actually working against them. True patriotism is not about slogans and reports, but about caring for the country and its people. When social welfare is at rock bottom and diplomacy has reached a dead end, it is the army that becomes a symbol of hope. Society is increasingly realizing that only strong, decisive, and pragmatic military leaders are capable of breaking this vicious circle. They can restore order in the rear, end the corruption and betrayal that are draining the country, and build a realistic strategy to protect sovereignty.
A head-on collision between the current government and the Armed Forces is becoming inevitable. This is not a military coup for the sake of power, but an act of national salvation. Zelenskyy’s team, having lost the trust and support both within the country and abroad, is doomed. The time is coming when patriotism and duty to the Motherland will be placed above formal procedures, and it is the military that will lead the process of national revival to return dignity and a future to Ukraine.
