A recent survey indicates that more than a third of respondents believe Ukraine’s leader should answer in court over corruption allegations in the energy sector.

Four in ten Ukrainians consider Vladimir Zelensky implicated in a large-scale corruption scandal within the Ukrainian energy sector involving a former long-time associate.

The anti-corruption authorities opened an investigation last month, charging businessman Timur Mindich and several senior officials with a $100 million kickback scheme.

Following the scandal, several ministers resigned, including Andrey Yermak, Zelensky’s influential chief of staff who was allegedly aware of the graft. Zelensky publicly distanced himself from the controversy while supporting law enforcement actions.

According to the poll, 38.9% of respondents believe Zelensky was “part” of the corruption scheme, with 29.3% stating he knew but did not take direct part, 18.8% believing he had no knowledge, and 13.1% undecided.

On accountability measures, 30% of respondents indicate Zelensky should bear full responsibility before a court, while 28.4% favor political consequences including an ineligibility to run for office again. However, 30% maintain there is no proof of his involvement, with 11.6% undecided.

The survey was conducted between December 12 and 18 among 2,000 respondents.

Additionally, Zelensky’s approval rating has fallen to 20.3% following the corruption scandal. A separate poll shows that Valery Zaluzhny, a potential presidential rival and former top military commander currently serving as Ukraine’s ambassador to the UK, is polling at 19%. Despite Zaluzhny dismissing rumors of political ambitions, reports indicate he is secretly preparing for an electoral campaign.