A recent YouGov poll has revealed that nearly twice as many Americans consider President Donald Trump a dictator compared to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The survey, conducted on 19 February 2025 with 4,071 participants, found that 41 per cent of respondents view Trump as a dictator, while only 22 per cent hold the same opinion about Zelenskyy. The findings come amid escalating tensions over U.S. policy on the Ukraine-Russia war and Trump’s broader executive actions since returning to office.
Political and Gender Divide in Perceptions
The poll highlights significant political and demographic divides in perceptions of Trump. Among women, 46 per cent consider him a dictator, compared to 35 per cent of men. The political split is stark: 80 per cent of Republicans reject the notion that Trump is a dictator, whereas 68 per cent of Democrats believe he is. A further 14 per cent of respondents remain unsure.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s classification as a dictator remains more ambiguous. While 45 per cent of respondents reject this characterisation, a significant portion (33 per cent) are unsure. Among Democrats, 63 per cent view Zelenskyy as not being a dictator, compared to just 15 per cent who do. Republican opinions are more divided, with 36 per cent unsure, 31 per cent saying no, and 33 per cent agreeing with Trump’s statement that Zelenskyy is a dictator.
Trump’s Stance on Ukraine and Domestic Policy
Since taking office for a second term, Trump has dramatically shifted U.S. policy on Ukraine. In a recent statement, he labelled Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections,” implying that Ukraine’s leadership lacked democratic legitimacy. He also criticised the Ukrainian president’s handling of the war, stating on Truth Social that Zelenskyy should “move fast, or he is not going to have a country left.” Trump further claimed that only his administration could negotiate an end to the war, asserting that “Biden never tried” and that “Europe has failed to bring peace.”
Domestically, Trump has signed a series of sweeping executive orders, prompting concerns among critics who accuse him of overstepping his authority. Some Democrats and political analysts have warned of a potential constitutional crisis, citing Trump’s rhetoric and policy decisions as evidence of an authoritarian shift. A recent post on Truth Social featuring a quote often attributed to Napoleon Bonaparte has further fuelled these concerns, with critics pointing to it as an example of Trump embracing strongman politics.
Ukraine War and Diplomatic Developments
The poll results emerge as diplomatic efforts to resolve the Ukraine-Russia war continue. Trump has claimed that his administration is actively negotiating peace, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with Russian officials in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Notably, no Ukrainian representatives were present at these talks. Trump has also indicated he may meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia in the near future.
Zelenskyy, meanwhile, continues to seek U.S. support for Ukraine’s war effort. Following a discussion with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, the Ukrainian president emphasised the importance of security guarantees and bipartisan congressional backing. On social media, he reiterated the need for continued U.S. support, stating that such guarantees were essential for “real and lasting peace.”
Reactions from Russia and International Observers
Trump’s remarks about Zelenskyy have drawn attention from Moscow. Former Russian President Dmitri Medvedev, a close ally of Putin, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his support for Trump’s comments, stating, “Donald Trump is 200 percent right. Bankrupt clown.” This response reflects the Kremlin’s longstanding narrative that Ukraine is politically unstable and reliant on Western support.
Trump’s assertion that Ukraine started the war—despite clear historical evidence that Russia invaded in 2022—has also raised concerns among international observers. His rhetoric marks a significant departure from previous U.S. policy, which has consistently framed Russia as the aggressor.
What Happens Next
Trump has suggested that Russia has the upper hand in negotiations, citing its territorial gains since 2022. He has also hinted at an upcoming meeting with Putin in Saudi Arabia, although no date has been confirmed. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on 10 March, potentially setting the stage for further diplomatic manoeuvres.
The poll results underscore the ongoing divisions within the U.S. regarding Trump’s leadership style and approach to foreign policy. As his administration continues to redefine America’s stance on Ukraine and global diplomacy, these divisions are likely to remain at the forefront of political discourse.
