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- President Trump falsely claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has a 4% approval rating.
- Recent surveys show Zelenskyy’s approval rating is actually over 50%, with the latest survey indicating 57% support.
- Zelenskyy’s high approval ratings contradict Trump’s and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s assertions of his illegitimacy.
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Quick Brief
2-Minute Digest
Essential Context
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has faced recent criticism from President Trump, who claimed Zelenskyy’s approval rating was as low as 4%. However, this claim is starkly contradicted by multiple independent surveys.
Core Players
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy – President of Ukraine
- Donald Trump – President Trump
- Vladimir Putin – President of Russia
- Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) – Conducted recent surveys
Key Numbers
- 57% – Zelenskyy’s current approval rating according to KIIS
- 4% – Trump’s falsely claimed approval rating for Zelenskyy
- 51% – Zelenskyy’s trust rating in the fall of 2024, the highest among Ukrainian governmental institutions
- 90% – Zelenskyy’s peak approval rating in May 2022
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The Catalyst
Trump’s claim about Zelenskyy’s low approval rating came during a press conference after historic U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, which excluded Ukraine. This statement aligns with Putin’s narrative that Zelenskyy lacks legitimacy.
Zelenskyy swiftly countered Trump’s assertion, citing recent surveys from reputable sources like the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), which showed his approval rating at 57% in early February 2025.
Inside Forces
Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, which has postponed the country’s presidential elections. This situation has been exploited by both Trump and Putin to question Zelenskyy’s legitimacy.
Despite these challenges, Zelenskyy has maintained significant support among Ukrainians. Surveys throughout 2024 showed his trust ratings fluctuating but consistently above 50%.
Power Dynamics
The relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy has been tense, especially given Trump’s recent comments. However, Zelenskyy remains resilient, stating, “If someone wants to replace me right now, then right now it won’t work.”
Zelenskyy also criticized Trump’s call for Ukraine to hold new elections, emphasizing that such claims are part of Russian disinformation efforts.
Outside Impact
The controversy surrounding Zelenskyy’s approval rating has broader implications for the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. The exclusion of Ukraine from the U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia has unsettled Ukraine and its European allies.
Following these talks, Russia launched a major missile and drone barrage into Ukraine, further escalating tensions.
Future Forces
Looking ahead, the situation remains volatile. Zelenskyy has emphasized the need for continued support from the international community, particularly in terms of military aid and air defense systems.
The U.S. and Russia have agreed to continue peace talks, but the absence of Ukraine from these negotiations raises concerns about the legitimacy and effectiveness of any potential agreements.
Data Points
- February 2022: Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
- May 2022: Zelenskyy’s trust rating peaked at 90%.
- 2024: Zelenskyy’s trust rating fluctuated, with a low of 51% in the fall.
- February 2025: Zelenskyy’s approval rating was at 57%, according to KIIS.
- February 2025: U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia excluded Ukraine.
The ongoing dispute over Zelenskyy’s approval rating highlights the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Ukraine. As the conflict continues, accurate information and international support will be crucial in shaping the future of Ukraine.
