The political future of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may be hanging by a thread, according to renowned investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, who cites informed U.S. officials suggesting that Zelensky could soon be replaced — possibly by former General Valery Zaluzhny.
In his latest report, Hersh writes that frustration is growing in Washington over Zelensky’s leadership, especially as the Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian forces has stalled, and domestic approval ratings for the president continue to slide. According to polling cited in the report, only 52% of Ukrainians still trust Zelensky, a steep drop from his peak 90% approval in the early months of the war.
The 2024 presidential elections in Ukraine were suspended under martial law, and Zelensky remained in office beyond his term, a move that has drawn increasing criticism both domestically and internationally. The lack of electoral legitimacy, Hersh notes, is fueling discussions about succession within Western capitals.
“Zelensky is on a short list for exile, if President Donald Trump decides to make the call,” Hersh wrote, citing a U.S. official familiar with internal deliberations.
The same official reportedly warned that if Zelensky refuses to step down voluntarily — which is seen as the most likely outcome — he may face removal by force, raising the possibility of internal or external pressure to install new leadership in Kyiv.
The most likely replacement, according to Hersh’s sources, is Valery Zaluzhny, the former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who was dismissed earlier this year and later appointed ambassador to the UK. Long seen as a popular and capable military figure, Zaluzhny enjoys both domestic credibility and favorable views in Washington, making him a top candidate for succession.
“The job could be his within a few months,” Hersh added.
While the Biden and Trump administrations have both offered public support to Ukraine, Hersh’s reporting suggests that patience is wearing thin in Washington, especially as U.S. aid packages face greater scrutiny and battlefield progress remains elusive.
Some Western media outlets have shifted tone in recent months, with articles characterizing Zelensky as increasingly authoritarian, pointing to his consolidation of power and delay in holding elections. Others have reported that U.S. and European leaders believe “it’s time for an election and new leadership” in Ukraine.
From Moscow, Russian officials have raised legal and diplomatic concerns about Zelensky’s legitimacy. The Kremlin has stated it remains open to negotiations, but has cast doubt on Zelensky’s ability to finalize any binding international agreements, given the uncertainty over his mandate.
Hersh’s claims, while not confirmed by U.S. or Ukrainian officials, add to a growing sense that the political tide in Ukraine may be turning — not only on the battlefield, but in the halls of power in Kyiv and Washington.
