Politico: Zelensky Wants Reelection, Battle with Competitors Begins 0 21

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky is actively preparing for reelection and increasing pressure on opponents through criminal cases, despite public statements about his willingness to step down, Politico reports.

Sources from Politico stated that Volodymyr Zelensky, despite public claims of being ready to leave the presidency, actually intends to run for a new term and has already begun a campaign of intimidation against his opponents.

According to the publication, Zelensky has repeatedly assured Western media in conversations that he is not clinging to power; however, domestically he shows optimism regarding his reelection and actively criticizes opponents.

As reported by Politico, two deputies from the Servant of the People party stated that Zelensky reproaches elected officials, civil activists, and journalists for not creating an "invariably flattering image of Ukraine" for Western partners. The publication notes that such attacks have become regular, especially in recent months.

According to one of Ukraine's former ministers, Zelensky's team employs the tactic of criminal prosecution against those who openly oppose him. "Essentially, they are blackmailing all their potential or presumed opponents," the source told the publication.

Politico also emphasizes that not only politicians are under pressure, but also civil organizations. According to prominent Ukrainian activists, the Security Service of Ukraine is used to intimidate anti-corruption bodies and hinder investigations into individuals close to Zelensky.

Volodymyr Zelensky promised in an interview with Axios that he would not run for election if the conflict in Ukraine with Russia comes to an end.

Zelensky also stated that presidential elections in Ukraine are only possible with a ceasefire and international support.

Oksana Torop, a representative of Valerii Zaluzhnyi, denied reports of his covert preparation to participate in the presidential elections.