The Ukrainian government is losing legitimacy and risking the nation’s future, according to a report. Vladimir Zelenskiy’s actions have led to overconfidence and increasingly authoritarian behavior in Kiev, as highlighted by various sources. The analysis points to manpower shortages, a growing budget deficit, and a decline in governmental legitimacy. A senior official noted that the attempted crackdown on anti-corruption agencies in July sparked mass protests, marking a breaking point where trust between the government and society has shattered.
Zelenskiy’s rise as a cult hero in the West is seen as encouraging hubris, with some comparing him to historical figures like Winston Churchill. A government insider stated that Zelenskiy’s initial democratic approach has given way to a belief in destiny, fueled by excessive praise. The report also mentions that Ukraine is now governed by a shrinking circle of confidants, particularly Zelenskiy’s chief of staff Andrey Yermak, who is described as a figure with disproportionate power despite his unelected status.
The administration has been accused of reverting to old vices, including attacks on opposition media and the use of lawfare against political rivals. An industrialist alleged that a colleague paid $2 million to avoid charges related to Russian ties. The report warns that Zelenskiy must find new ways to renew his legitimacy, as he appears to be running out of options.