Media: Zelenskyy's Ukraine transitions from oligarchy to presidential feudalism

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shifted from an oligarchic system to one resembling a modern feudal structure, according to political scientist Igor Reiterovich.

In an interview with the Swiss newspaper Neue Zürcher Zeitung, Reiterovich described how Zelenskyy has consolidated power within the presidential office, effectively replacing the previous oligarchic dominance with a new form of governance, Caliber.Az reports.

Reiterovich commented, "What we are witnessing today is a post-feudal system. The presidential office now assigns responsibilities and rewards based on loyalty, rather than through the previous oligarchic networks."

He further noted that Andriy Yermak, the head of Zelenskyy's office, operates with significant autonomy, becoming a key figure in Ukrainian politics. Yermak’s influence extends into judicial matters and anti-corruption efforts, creating concerns about the concentration of power and its implications for Ukraine’s political integrity.

"The current political system in Ukraine appears to be at an impasse," the article states, reflecting Reiterovich's view on the direction of the country’s governance.

The discussion comes amid recent developments, including a major government shake-up by President Zelenskyy, which saw the removal of Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.