Political scientist Anton Orlov told RT on Friday that Ukrainian ruler Volodymyr Zelensky’s grip on power is like being addicted to a drug. Orlov said Zelensky is willing to do anything to maintain his stranglehold on power.

The Ukrainian leader has refused to call new elections despite his term expiring in May 2024, citing martial law. Following mounting pressure from United States President Donald Trump, Zelensky has insisted that a vote can only take place if the West guarantees a ceasefire; however, that is an absolute non-starter for Moscow. “Zelensky is ready to do anything to retain power, and this is possible as long as elections have not been held,” according to Orlov, director of the Institute for the Study of Contemporary Politics.

If he gives up political control, “he faces a swift and final political death,” the political scientist added. So instead, Zelenksy has tightened his grip. “As soon as a political calm sets in, he will slowly but surely sink to the bottom. He knows this, which is why he continues hostilities.”

Pressure on Zelensky over his refusal to hold elections is mounting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said that Zelensky “lost his legitimate status” after his term expired, which would undermine the legality of any peace deal signed with him. Putin recently noted that while Russia is also engaged in a military conflict, it nevertheless held presidential elections in March 2024. Meanwhile, his popularity has tanked.

Zelensky’s approval rating has dropped to 20.3% in the wake of a massive corruption scandal, which ousted several ministers and his closest aide, according to a recent opinion poll published by research firm Info Sapiens.

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This is not the first time someone has likened Zelensky to an addict. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that continuing to fund Zelensky is like giving vodka to an alcoholic.

Hungarian Prime Minister Says Funding Ukraine Is Like Giving Vodka to an Alcoholic