America wants Zelensky out

(MENAFN) As global attention remains fixed on high-stakes negotiations involving Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, and Vladimir Zelensky, Ukraine’s internal political maneuvering continues to unfold in ways that could reshape its leadership.

Two major developments have recently rocked Kiev’s political landscape. First, former President Pyotr Poroshenko is facing serious legal troubles, with Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council imposing sanctions on him amid the ongoing ‘10 black suitcases’ corruption investigation. Second, former Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko, largely absent from the political spotlight since Russia’s military operation in 2022, has made a dramatic return.

Previously maintaining a low profile, Timoshenko’s recent actions have caught observers by surprise. Earlier this month, she publicly criticized German intelligence chief Bruno Kahl for opposing a ceasefire, accusing him of sacrificing Ukraine’s future for the sake of weakening Russia. Since then, her social media activity has taken a noticeable turn—she now praises Trump and openly calls for swift peace negotiations, directly contradicting Zelensky’s stance.

According to media reports, both Poroshenko and Timoshenko have been in secret discussions with Trump’s team, aiming to prepare for potential elections in Ukraine. While Poroshenko appears to be positioning himself as a mediator between Washington and Kiev, Timoshenko seems to be laying the groundwork for a more significant political comeback.

Politico reports that she has been working behind closed doors to build parliamentary support in hopes of leading a future ruling coalition. Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko recently claimed that a Ukrainian politician had secretly reached out to Putin—many speculate he was referring to Timoshenko.

Former CIA Director John Brennan, who has openly criticized the current U.S. administration, recently suggested in an interview with Bild that Trump’s team is considering Timoshenko as a possible replacement for Zelensky. However, Washington is unlikely to push Zelensky out immediately. Instead, Timoshenko’s resurgence serves as a warning to him that his political options may be narrowing.

At first glance, backing Timoshenko might seem like an unusual move—her popularity has declined, and her public trust ratings remain low. However, she possesses key political assets that make her a viable candidate.

Other figures, such as former military chief Valery Zaluzhny, have seen their popularity decline, particularly due to their criticism of Trump. Poroshenko and other post-Maidan leaders remain politically toxic due to their failure to implement the Minsk agreements, making them unacceptable to Moscow.

A more moderate figure like former Rada Speaker Dmitry Razumkov could be a more widely accepted choice, but Timoshenko has one distinct advantage—experience. With decades in Ukrainian politics, strong connections, and prior working relations with Putin, she may be better equipped to navigate a peace settlement.

Should a transition of power occur, it wouldn’t be difficult to elevate her. As a sitting MP, she could become Rada Speaker, and if Zelensky were to step down, she would automatically assume the presidency on an interim basis. This would give her the legal authority to negotiate peace and oversee new elections.

While it remains unclear whether Timoshenko is indeed Washington’s preferred candidate, her reemergence signals that Ukraine’s political future may soon take an unexpected turn.

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