The final decision regarding Volodymyr Zelensky's participation in the upcoming presidential elections has not yet been made. Much will depend on two factors.
This is mentioned in the article "All to the Elections? What Zelensky, Zaluzhny, and Other Top Politicians Are Preparing For".
As noted in the article, a lot will hinge on the terms under which the war concludes, how those terms will be perceived by the public, and who will emerge as Zelensky's main competitor.
There are differing opinions within the presidential team regarding his participation in the elections. The closest circle is leaning toward the idea that he should run regardless of the circumstances. Meanwhile, the "second-tier" entourage believes they should monitor public opinion and make a decision closer to the elections.
Another factor of uncertainty is whether the former commander-in-chief, now Ukraine's ambassador to the UK, Valeriy Zaluzhny, will run for office. All public and private polls conducted during the war show his leadership in electoral preferences, regardless of the candidate lineup. Zelensky ranks second after him.
It’s worth noting that trust in President Volodymyr Zelensky has been gradually declining. Over the past year, it has fallen from approximately 75% to 50%. According to the latest survey by KMIS, in December 2024, 52% of respondents trusted Zelensky, while 39% did not. Pollsters also observe a general decline in trust toward the government.
Zelensky dismissed Zaluzhny in February 2024. This decision decreased the level of trust among Ukrainians in the president.
According to surveys conducted in early 2024, Zaluzhny enjoyed significantly more trust from Ukrainians than Zelensky, with his rating exceeding 90%.