Ukrainian leadership buffeted by crises but surviving

Significance

He failed to say whether there was still a conflict of interest through dividend payments to his family. This adds to Zelensky's public relations problems, which involve chronic challenges relating to the economy, COVID-19, corruption and the conflict in eastern regions.

Impacts

• Former Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev's comment that Ukraine's leaders are not even worth talking to signals a harsher stance.
• Political scandals will do nothing to improve Ukraine's image abroad but are unlikely to affect strategic relations with Western partners.
• If Zelensky's personal ratings remain high and stable through the winter months, he may be tempted to call an early presidential election.
• If household energy prices are kept at present levels, the cost of subsidies will exacerbate budget financing pressures.