**Public Trust in Zelensky Drops by 11 Percentage Points**
A recent poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) has revealed a significant decline in public trust for President Volodymyr Zelensky. The survey, published on June 16, found that only 65% of Ukrainians currently have faith in the president, down from 76% in May.
**Trust Balance Lowest Since March**
The trust balance, which measures the difference between those who trust and distrust the president, has dropped to +35%, the lowest recorded since March. This represents a decline of 11 percentage points compared to the previous month. While Zelensky’s approval rating remains above the February low of 57%, this drop in public trust is a concerning trend for the Ukrainian leader.
**Pressure for Ceasefire and Weakening Popular Support**
Sociologists are unable to pinpoint a specific cause for the short-term decline, but highlight factors such as increasing pressure for a ceasefire and the weakening of popular support seen earlier this year during tense relations with U.S. President Donald Trump. Zelensky’s approval had spiked briefly in early May to 74% following the signing of a minerals agreement with the U.S., which was seen as a diplomatic and economic win.
**Regional Divide**
The poll also reveals a stark regional divide, with trust in Zelensky highest in western Ukraine (73%) and lowest in the south and east (61%), areas more frequently targeted by Russian strikes. This geographical disparity could have significant implications for the president’s ability to maintain public support across different regions.
**Attitudes Toward Territorial Concessions**
The data also highlights a sharp contrast in attitudes toward territorial concessions among those who trust and distrust Zelensky. While 55% of those who trust him are strongly opposed to any compromise, only 43% of those who distrust him are firmly against concessions.
**Methodology and Limitations**
The survey was conducted between May 15 and June 3 using a random sample of 1,011 adult residents across Ukraine, excluding occupied territories. Respondents were interviewed by phone. While the data provides valuable insights into public opinion, it is essential to consider the limitations of the methodology and potential biases in the results.
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