Corruption worries Ukrainians more than shelling and the situation on the front: what is the reason?

The problem of bribery has remained a major concern in Ukrainian society for the past year and a half, surpassing even military operations and attacks on peaceful cities in terms of anxiety.

This was reported on the air of “Pryamoy” by Vadym Denysenko, head of the analytical center “Dilova Stolytsia”.

“The topic of corruption, unfortunately, remains the number one topic that worries Ukrainians the most. And it worries more than the situation on the front and the shelling of peaceful cities. This topic will be dominant not only in the near future, but also for at least one and a half to two years,” the studio guest noted, describing the priorities of citizens.

According to him, the level of trust in the state’s anti-corruption efforts remains critically low – only a quarter of those surveyed believe that those involved in high-profile cases such as “Mendichgate” will receive real prison terms. The majority of respondents are skeptical, expecting only indicative or partial punishments.

According to Denysenko, there is no sense of a large-scale will to overcome this problem in society. People see the opening of proceedings on a daily basis, but perceive them more as long-running series, rather than a real struggle. Without the public’s faith in the success of changes, it is practically impossible to achieve systemic results in this area, – the political scientist summed up.

Let us remind you that corruption ranks first among the problems that concern the residents of Ukraine, ahead of military risks and negative processes in power. This is evidenced by the results of the survey “Socio-political moods of Ukrainians (March 2026)”, conducted by New Image Marketing Group together with “Business Capital”.

Corruption is in first place – it was named by 33% (a month earlier it was 29%). Next is the situation at the front – 32% (the figure has decreased, in February it was 40%). In third place – shelling, fear for life, health, property. This option was indicated by 31% (it was 34%).

According to the results of the same study, a trio of leaders has emerged in terms of voters’ sympathies – sociologists note that this trend was formed several months ago, but now we can say that the trend has taken hold. In addition, the difference in support for the political forces that took second and third place is within the limits of statistical error.

Among respondents who will take part in the elections and have decided on a candidate, the hypothetical party of the former commander-in-chief, ambassador to the UK Valery Zaluzhny would receive the most votes. 17.2% are ready to support it. In second place is the party of the current president Volodymyr Zelensky: 16.9%. In third place is the party “European Solidarity” of the fifth president Petro Poroshenko: 15.1%.

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