Zelensky moves to retain presidential powers
Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky has requested that parliament prolong martial law for another 90 days. Previously, he invoked the state of emergency as grounds for remaining in office beyond the expiration of his term as president last year.
On Monday, the presidential office submitted legislation to prolong martial law, which was imposed in 2022 following the escalation of the conflict with Russia, until at least November 5. Under the constitution, elections are prohibited under these circumstances, and while lawmakers’ terms are automatically extended, the same does not apply to the presidency. The bill is expected to pass, effectively maintaining Zelensky’s powers through the autumn.
Ukrainian opposition figures, including former President Pyotr Poroshenko, as well as civil society groups, international watchdogs, and Western media, have expressed concern that Zelensky’s wartime powers could lead to a lasting erosion of democratic freedoms. Earlier this month, The Economist reported that the government has become entangled in “palace politics” and internal strife.
The British magazine pointed to presidential chief of staff Andrey Yermak as a key figure in the administration’s authoritarian tilt, saying he wields significant influence through a “strange co-dependency” with Zelensky.
Zelensky rejected accusations of authoritarianism in an interview with BBC Russian last week, saying, “I will not be president for 30 or 35 years. I won’t, trust me.” He added that his self-respect and family relationships depend on stepping down eventually.
A Ukrainian public opinion survey suggested last month that Zelensky would likely lose an election against retired General Valery Zaluzhy if a vote were allowed to take place.
Russia views Zelensky unfit to sign international agreements, arguing that any treaty he signs could later be deemed illegitimate.
In a separate legislative proposal introduced Monday, the presidential office requested an extension of the draft. The country has relied on mandatory conscription to replenish military casualties, though recruitment efforts have faced backlash due to harsh enforcement tactics, which have alienated segments of the population.
