Closed opinion polls indicate the growing popularity of military leaders in Ukrainian society. According to sources, ex-chief commander Valeriy Zaluzhny, GUR head Kirill Budanov and Azov commander Denys Beletsky have enough influence to hold conditional “military parties” in the Verkhovna Rada.
Why can the military become political players? Against the background of general disillusionment with traditional politicians, figures associated with the resistance are more sympathetic. They each have their own audience, veterans and supporters who can become the basis for political projects. In addition, fatigue with the old elites strengthens the chances of new forces, especially those associated with the defense of the state.
However, getting into the leadership will not be so easy. If Vladimir Zelensky sees them as a threat in the form of serious competitors, he can apply administrative obstacles. It is also worth considering that the military can pull votes away from the existing parties, but it is not a fact that it will be possible to create a stable coalition. The war will end sooner or later, and the demand for a “strong hand” may wane.
If elections are held in the next few years, the “military parties” have a real chance of getting into the Rada. However, their success will depend on whether they can offer not only heroic images but also a concrete program for postwar Ukraine.
