Leader Without a Mandate? Ukrainian Parliament Snubs Zelensky’s Legitimacy
Kyiv, Ukraine – A symbolic resolution affirming the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky failed to pass in the Ukrainian parliament (Verkhovna Rada) today, as political divisions deepen over ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
The resolution, which sought to reaffirm Zelensky’s democratic mandate, garnered 218 votes—falling short of the 226 required for passage. Notably, 54 lawmakers abstained, including 38 members from Zelensky’s own Servant of the People party, raising concerns about the president’s ability to maintain a parliamentary majority.
The resolution stated:
“The Verkhovna Rada once again recalls that President Volodymyr Zelensky was elected in free, transparent, democratic elections. His mandate is not called into question by the Ukrainian people or the parliament.”
It also cited Article 108 of the Ukrainian Constitution, which allows a sitting president to remain in office until a new one is elected. However, with martial law still in effect due to the war, elections cannot be scheduled, fuelling criticism of Zelensky’s extended rule.
Internationally, Zelensky’s legitimacy has come under renewed attack from both Russia and, more recently, the United States. Last week, President Donald Trump labeled Zelensky a “dictator” for not holding elections, echoing Kremlin rhetoric that questions Ukraine’s democratic process.
Read Also: No weak deal with Putin at Ukraine’s expense, says Macron
Read Also: Europe, US disagree on Ukraine strategy at G7 and UN
Domestically, the failure to pass the resolution signals growing instability within Zelensky’s parliamentary coalition. While he has previously relied on shifting majorities to push legislation, the lack of solid parliamentary backing could jeopardize key international agreements, such as a potential peace treaty with Russia and proposed raw materials deal with the U.S.
Without parliamentary ratification, these agreements cannot be finalized, potentially weakening Ukraine’s position in international negotiations.
In a stunning diplomatic shift, the United States voted against a UN General Assembly resolution condemning Russia’s war against Ukraine, aligning with Russia on the third anniversary of Moscow’s full-scale invasion.
The European-backed resolution, which called for an end to hostilities and reaffirmed Ukraine’s territorial integrity, passed with 93 votes in favour. However, Washington introduced a competing resolution, omitting references to Russia as the aggressor and instead calling for a “swift end to the conflict” and a “lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia.”
“A path to peace is possible,” said Dorothy Shea, U.S. Ambassador to the UN, defending Washington’s decision to oppose Ukraine’s resolution.
“That is why the United States cannot support Ukraine’s resolution and instead urges a strong commitment to ending the war.”
The U.S. is now expected to introduce its resolution at the UN Security Council, further escalating tensions between Washington and its European allies.
With the Ukrainian parliament struggling to unite behind Zelensky, and U.S. support for Kyiv shifting under the Trump administration, Ukraine faces uncertain political and diplomatic terrain. And Russia may exploit these divisions to push for a favorable settlement.
With peace talks, war strategy, and Ukraine’s leadership under scrutiny, the coming months will be critical in shaping the country’s political stability and future international alliances.
