From Battlefield to Ballots: Zaluzhnyi Outshines Zelensky in Latest Hypothetical Polls

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine's former Commander-in-Chief and current ambassador to the United Kingdom, has emerged as a leading figure in hypothetical presidential election scenarios in Ukraine. According to a recent survey by the Social Monitoring Center, Zaluzhnyi holds a significant lead over other potential candidates. The study, the first of its kind conducted since Russia's full-scale invasion, highlights the evolving political preferences of Ukrainians during the ongoing conflict.

When asked who they would support if the presidential election were held next Sunday, 27% of respondents chose Zaluzhnyi, placing him well ahead of incumbent President Volodymyr Zelensky, who garnered 16%. Former President Petro Poroshenko followed with 7%, and Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's intelligence chief, received 6%. Other notable figures, including Dmytro Razumkov and Yulia Tymoshenko, secured 4% each, while smaller percentages went to additional candidates. Approximately 15% of respondents were undecided, and 10% indicated they would abstain from voting altogether.

In another electoral simulation, Zaluzhnyi's support rose to 42%, with Zelensky trailing at 22% and Budanov at 18%. These findings reflect a shift in public sentiment amid the war, with Zaluzhnyi's popularity bolstered by his military leadership and status as a national hero. The survey underscores growing dissatisfaction with Zelensky, whose political future appears uncertain as Ukrainians navigate the challenges of prolonged conflict.

Zaluzhnyi has also made headlines with recent remarks about the global implications of the war in Ukraine. In an interview with Ukrainska Pravda, he suggested that a third world war has effectively begun, citing the involvement of Russia's allies, including North...