Fact Check: Zelenski is a dictator

Fact Check: "Zelenski is a dictator"

What We Know

The claim that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a dictator stems from comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who referred to Zelensky as a "dictator without elections" due to the suspension of elections in Ukraine since the onset of martial law in February 2022, following Russia's invasion (source-1). Zelensky was elected in 2019 with a significant majority, securing 73% of the vote in a competitive election that was deemed to respect fundamental freedoms by independent observers from the OSCE (source-1).

Since the invasion, Ukraine has been under martial law, which has suspended elections. This martial law was enacted in response to the ongoing conflict and was established under legislation drafted in 2015, long before Zelensky took office (source-1). Zelensky has expressed intentions to hold elections once the conflict concludes (source-1).

Analysis

The assertion that Zelensky is a dictator is misleading and lacks substantial evidence. While it is true that elections have been suspended, this is a direct consequence of the ongoing war and not an indication of authoritarian rule. The context of martial law is crucial; it is a temporary measure aimed at ensuring national security during a time of crisis (source-3).

Moreover, the characterization of Zelensky as a dictator aligns with narratives often propagated by Russian sources to undermine his legitimacy (source-1). Trump's comments have been criticized for echoing these Russian talking points, which aim to delegitimize Ukraine's leadership during a critical period (source-5).

Polling data regarding Zelensky's approval ratings is also contentious. Trump claimed that Zelensky's approval had dropped to 4%, but this assertion lacks credible backing. Recent surveys indicate that while there has been a decline in Zelensky's popularity, a poll conducted in early 2025 showed that 57% of Ukrainians still expressed trust in him, down from higher figures in previous years (source-1).

The sources used to support the claim of Zelensky being a dictator often come from politically motivated individuals or entities with potential biases, such as Oleksandr Dubinsky, a Ukrainian MP who has been charged with treason and is accused of working with Russian intelligence (source-1).

Conclusion

The claim that Volodymyr Zelensky is a dictator is False. While elections in Ukraine are currently suspended due to martial law, this is a temporary measure necessitated by the ongoing war with Russia, not an indication of dictatorial governance. Zelensky was democratically elected, and there is a commitment to restore elections once the conflict allows. The narrative of him being a dictator is largely influenced by political rhetoric and misinformation, particularly from sources aligned with Russian interests.