As European Union leaders rally behind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, crypto traders on Polymarket are betting against his tenure, speculating on a 19% probability that he will step down before July 2025. Over $627,000 has been staked on the prediction market platform, reflecting growing uncertainty about Ukraine’s leadership amid its ongoing war with Russia.
EU Extends Support as Zelenskyy’s Future Becomes a Betting Market
European leaders are set to meet on March 6 to discuss Russia’s aggression and a peace plan for Ukraine. In contrast, U.S. political figures have displayed less diplomatic support, leaving Ukraine’s future hanging in the balance.
Following his recent meeting with President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy faced sharp criticism instead of diplomatic assurances. Trump rebuked Zelenskyy for what he perceived as a lack of gratitude toward the U.S., saying:
“You have to be thankful. You don’t have the cards right now.”
For weeks, Trump has reportedly pressured Ukraine to surrender mineral assets to the U.S. in exchange for support, while offering little in return, according to the Associated Press.
Tense Exchange Between Trump and Zelenskyy
During the White House meeting, Zelenskyy resisted Trump’s push for concessions, responding:
“I’m not playing cards. I’m very serious, Mr. President. I’m the president in a war.”
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to deny Ukraine’s sovereignty, using historical distortions to justify Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Vice President JD Vance also criticized Zelenskyy, questioning his gratitude and dismissing his attempts to present Ukraine’s situation.
“Have you said thank you once this entire meeting?” Vance asked.
In reality, Zelenskyy has publicly thanked the U.S. dozens of times—CNN counted nearly three dozen acknowledgments, including a February 12 statement expressing gratitude for U.S. involvement.
Vance’s Dismissive Response to Zelenskyy
As Zelenskyy invited Vance to witness Ukraine’s struggles firsthand, the vice president dismissed the offer, accusing Ukraine of orchestrating propaganda tours.
“Come once,” Zelenskyy urged.
“I’ve actually watched and seen the stories, and I know that what happens is you bring people, you bring them on a propaganda tour, Mr. President,” Vance responded.
The conversation further deteriorated when Trump blamed Zelenskyy’s resistance to Putin for complicating peace talks.
“That’s very tough for me to make a deal with that kind of hate,” Trump said.
EU Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Ukraine
Despite Trump’s dismissive stance, European leaders have strongly reiterated their support for Ukraine.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted:
“Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone, dear President Zelenskyy. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace.”
Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev echoed this sentiment, stating:
“Ukraine, be brave, be strong! We are all by your side.”
As Polymarket traders speculate on Zelenskyy’s political future, the divide between European solidarity and U.S. reluctance signals uncertainty for Ukraine’s path forward.
