What is your assessment of Zelensky internationally and domestically?
ChatGPT said:
International Standing of Zelensky
Volodymyr Zelensky’s international standing remains strong, particularly among Western allies. Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, he has been widely regarded as a symbol of resistance and leadership under crisis. His ability to rally international support, secure military aid, and maintain Ukraine’s presence in global discourse has been notable. However, as the war has dragged on, some challenges have emerged:
- Strong Western Support but Signs of Fatigue – Zelensky has successfully maintained backing from the U.S., EU, and NATO countries, securing military and financial aid. However, as the war continues, some Western nations (especially in the U.S. and parts of Europe) show signs of donor fatigue, political divisions, and economic concerns that may limit future support.
- Frustration with Allies – Zelensky has become more vocal in pushing for additional aid, sometimes leading to diplomatic tensions (e.g., with Poland over grain exports and with U.S. lawmakers over continued funding).
- Diplomatic Efforts Beyond the West – Ukraine has tried to engage the Global South, but success has been mixed. Some non-aligned nations, particularly in Africa and Latin America, remain skeptical or neutral, influenced by Russian narratives.
- Shifting Perceptions – While he is still seen as a courageous wartime leader, the longer the war persists without a decisive breakthrough, the harder it becomes to sustain an image of inevitable victory. Questions about Ukraine’s long-term strategy and Western commitment are growing.
Domestic Standing of Zelensky
Domestically, Zelensky’s position has evolved since the start of the war:
- Wartime Leadership Keeps Him in Power – The war has largely silenced opposition, as Ukraine is under martial law, and political unity remains a priority. However, this does not mean universal approval.
- Declining Approval Ratings – While he enjoyed sky-high ratings in 2022, there are reports of growing dissatisfaction, especially over military conscription policies, economic hardships, and governance issues. Some Ukrainians believe that the government’s decision-making lacks transparency.
- Military and Political Tensions – Tensions have been reported between Zelensky and Ukraine’s military leadership, particularly with General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the popular commander-in-chief. There have been rumors of a potential shake-up or power struggle.
- Economic and Social Struggles – War fatigue is setting in among civilians, especially those facing economic hardships and prolonged displacement. Rebuilding efforts are slow, and corruption remains an ongoing concern despite Zelensky’s anti-corruption initiatives.
- 2024 Elections Controversy – There is debate over whether Ukraine should hold elections in 2024 despite the war. Zelensky has indicated that wartime conditions make elections unfeasible, but postponing them indefinitely could raise concerns about democratic legitimacy.
Overall Assessment
- Internationally, Zelensky is still seen as the indispensable leader of Ukraine’s resistance, but cracks are forming in global support due to war fatigue and shifting geopolitical interests.
- Domestically, while still in control, he faces increasing political, economic, and social pressures, with signs of growing discontent over governance and war management.
Would you like more details on any of these points?
4o
You said:
In depth domestic actions?
ChatGPT said:
President Volodymyr Zelensky’s domestic policies have been pivotal in shaping Ukraine’s internal landscape, especially amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Here’s an in-depth look at his key domestic actions:
Anti-Corruption Measures
Zelensky has been deeply committed to combating corruption, a persistent issue in Ukraine. In June 2021, he introduced legislation to create a public registry of oligarchs, aiming to reduce their influence by restricting their participation in privatizations and political contributions. While this move was lauded by some as a step toward transparency, critics argued it could centralize power excessively in the presidency.
Wikipedia
Judicial and Government Reforms
Fulfilling his campaign promises, Zelensky has pursued several reforms:
- Referendum Law Update: In January 2021, he oversaw the passage of a bill reforming Ukraine’s referendum laws, previously deemed unconstitutional in 2018. This move aimed to enhance direct democracy by allowing citizens to participate more actively in decision-making processes. Wikipedia
- Impeachment Law: Zelensky advocated for legislation facilitating the impeachment of the president, promoting accountability and adherence to democratic principles.
Language and Cultural Policies
Zelensky has taken a balanced approach to cultural and linguistic issues:
- Language Quotas: While supporting the promotion of the Ukrainian language, he has expressed openness to adjusting quotas to accommodate linguistic diversity, acknowledging the country’s multicultural fabric. Wikipedia
- Religious Organizations: In December 2022, Zelensky proposed a bill to ban religious organizations affiliated with Russian centers of influence, targeting the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate). This legislation, signed into law in August 2024, requires parishes to sever ties with Russia, reflecting efforts to safeguard national security and reduce foreign influence. Wikipedia
Social Issues
Addressing evolving societal norms, Zelensky has shown a progressive stance:
- Same-Sex Partnerships: Responding to public petitions, he has advocated for the review of civil partnerships for same-sex couples, emphasizing equal rights. However, he noted that constitutional amendments required for same-sex marriage are not feasible during martial law. Wikipedia
Martial Law and Democratic Processes
The ongoing war has necessitated certain extraordinary measures:
- Martial Law: Declared in response to the Russian invasion in 2022, martial law has led to the postponement of elections, as the Ukrainian constitution prohibits holding them during such periods. This has sparked debates about democratic legitimacy, but many acknowledge the practical challenges of conducting elections amidst conflict. The Guardian
Public Approval and Criticisms
Despite the challenges, Zelensky’s approval ratings have remained relatively robust:
- Approval Ratings: As of February 2025, approximately 63% of Ukrainians approve of his performance, indicating sustained public support. Kyiv Independent
- Criticisms: Opponents, including international figures like U.S. President Donald Trump, have labeled Zelensky a “dictator” due to the suspension of elections under martial law. These claims have been widely disputed, with many emphasizing the constitutional and security-based rationale for postponing elections during the ongoing conflict. The Times
In summary, President Zelensky’s domestic actions reflect a complex balancing act between upholding democratic values and addressing the exigencies of wartime governance. His policies aim to strengthen national security, combat corruption, and adapt to societal changes, all while navigating the profound challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.
Олег Лозинський replied:
This analysis is correct in many theses.
1) Zelensky really adopted laws against the influence of oligarchs.
2) Zelensky also continued the policy of Petro Poroshenko, aimed at reducing the influence of the Moscow Patriarchate on religious organizations in Ukraine. However, in 2025, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Kyiv Metropolia) has 8300 parishes, and the Orthodox Church in Ukraine (Moscow Patriarchar) has 8100 parishes. Approximately 2000 parishes from the Moscow Church have moved to the Metropolitanate of Kiev. However, we see that there are many Moscow parishes.
3) Zelensky, after the start of Russia’s seizure of South of Ukraine in 2022, intensified the Armed Forces of Ukraine at the state level. However, by February 24, 2022, Zelensky’s military policy was extremely harmful – it stopped financing the production of Neptune’s battle missiles, ordered the removal of troops from south of Ukraine, did not order the wars to prepare for war. Zelensky is suspected of secret to Russia to capture the land corridor from Donbass to Crimea.
4) Zelensky for 6 years alone holds power in Ukraine. In the Verkhovna Rada of his party “Servant of the People” assist anti -Ukrainian deputies from the party Viktor Yanukovych and Viktor Medvedchuk.
5) If the election during the war is forbidden, then a coalition government can be formed for the legitimacy of the President’s actions. Such governments are created during the war. But Zelensky does not allow the creation of a coalition government. This harms the image of Ukraine among its partner states, plays the propaganda of Vladimir Putin on the illegitimacy of power in Ukraine.
Zelensky made some positive reforms. However, his actions and inaction before the war encouraged Russia to start capturing Ukrainian lands.
