Zaluzhnyi and Yermak: Behind-the-Scenes Political Maneuvering Amid Ukraine’s War
In a period marked by immense challenges and trials faced by Ukraine due to Russian aggression, the country’s political landscape remains rife with behind-the-scenes battles and power plays.
Among the most influential figures operating quietly outside the public eye is Valeriy Zaluzhnyi — the former Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces and current ambassador to the United Kingdom.
According to the British publication The Guardian, Zaluzhnyi has adopted a cautious approach: he has promised to remain loyal to President Volodymyr Zelensky while carefully avoiding public conflicts or criticisms.
This strategy appears aimed at protecting himself and his future political ambitions, which he keeps largely under wraps.Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Zaluzhnyi has gained substantial popularity within Ukrainian society.
Despite his official position, his opinion and potential plans are attracting considerable attention from Ukrainian politicians and activists.
In London, many so-called “political pilgrims” visit him to offer support or propose their services for upcoming election campaigns.
Zaluzhnyi prefers to steer clear of political noise, avoiding giving grounds for speculation.
Nevertheless, analysts suggest that he might run as a contender and a serious rival to Zelensky in the future, which explains his growing influence among the Ukrainian public.At the Ukrainian embassy in London, frequent meetings take place with various political figures, including Ukrainian MPs, civic activists, businessmen, and even former Trump advisor Paul Manafort, who met with Zaluzhnyi to offer his assistance as a political consultant for future campaigns — a proposal the general declined.Observing the broader political environment, many believe that Andrii Yermak, the head of the president’s office, is also an active player.
Reports indicate that last year, Yermak proposed that Zaluzhnyi formally join Zelensky’s political team to present a united front ahead of the upcoming elections.
Zaluzhnyi refused but promised loyalty to the president, asserting that he would not publicly criticize Zelensky during the war and would avoid causing unexpected surprises for the presidential office.
He also said he would inform Yermak first if he decided to pursue a political career.Although Zaluzhnyi has never openly declared his political plans and remains discreet even in private conversations, experts believe he is biding his time, waiting for the optimal moment.
Recently, in March, Zaluzhnyi declined to engage with Donald Trump’s team, which was seeking alternatives to Zelensky amid U.S.-Ukraine tensions — a clear sign of his cautious, strategic stance in the complex game of Ukrainian politics.