Ukraine's ambassador believes country has opportunity for political change following war

Ukraine has a significant opportunity to pursue political transformation once a peace agreement is reached, according to Kyivs ambassador to the United Kingdom. General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who served as commander-in-chief of Ukraines armed forces until last year and is widely viewed as a prospective future president, emphasized that the country must eliminate corruption and implement comprehensive reforms to thrive in a post-war era.

Writing for The Telegraph, the ambassador stated that peace creates a chance for political transformation, advocating for full recovery, economic growth, and the return of citizens. His comments follow closely on the heels of the resignation of Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, amid a corruption investigation that has destabilized the government and exposed vulnerabilities in the presidency. Yermak, denying any wrongdoing, announced he would return to the front line to fight.

President Zelensky has already dismissed two ministers and sanctioned associates after an anti-corruption inquiry uncovered the embezzlement of 76 million from the state nuclear company Energoatom. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues diplomatic efforts, with a delegation led by Rustem Umerov visiting the United States for talks and Zelensky scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris as part of the push for a peace settlement.

Gen Zaluzhnyi, who led Ukraines armed forces from 2021 to 2024, cautioned against hasty agreements that could compromise Ukraines sovereignty. He proposed several security measures, including NATO membership and potentially hosting allied nuclear weapons, as safeguards against future Russian aggression. While Ukrainians aim for total victory, a long-term resolution to the conflict cannot be excluded, he wrote.

The general highlighted the importance of using the peace process to strengthen the nation through innovation, technology, and judicial reform. Peace, even in anticipation of future threats, opens the door to political change, deep reforms, economic recovery, and the safe return of citizens. Establishing justice and fighting corruption are essential, but security guarantees are indispensable, he said.

Vladimir Putin has repeatedly opposed Ukraine joining NATO, threatening to reject any peace agreement containing such terms. Western powers, however, support Article 5-style guarantees to prevent further Russian incursions.

At home, Gen Zaluzhnyi has become a symbol of Ukrainian resilience, often referred to as the Iron General. His leadership during the siege of Kyiv in the early days of the war earned him immense popularity, with his image appearing on merchandise and several locations named in his honor. Known for engaging directly with troops, he attends military funerals and even officiates soldiers weddings, earning admiration from the rank and file.

For Kyivs political landscape, any peace deal could necessitate an election, essentially turning the agreement into a national referendum. Zelensky has indicated he may not seek reelection after the conflict. In September, he told Axios that finishing the war is his primary objective, rather than pursuing another term in office.

Polling data suggests that support for Zelenskys party is declining. A recent survey by Socis indicated that a political bloc potentially led by Gen Zaluzhnyi could outperform the presidents party in future elections.

Author: Sophia Brooks