Zelensky’s War Presidency: Executive Dynamics and Policy Challenges in Ukraine during Russia’s Invasion

From presidential regimes, in particular the US, scholars have shown that in times of crisis or war, the president’s power rises by a rally-round-the-flag effect and by centralization of power as extraordinary procedures, and emergency powers come into effect. Regarding semi-presidential regimes where presidents are constitutionally weaker, scholars have established that under normal conditions, presidents often use their popularity to gain influence over the executive beyond their limited formal powers. Very few studies, however, have examined how the condition of war impacts on executive dynamics in semi-presidential regimes. This study addresses this gap by examining intra-executive relations between the president and cabinet in Ukraine since the Russian invasion in February 2022. More specifically, we aim to understand to what extent and in what ways constitutional principles and division of powers between the president, cabinet, and parliament have been upheld during the time of war. We also ask to what extent the executive has been able to carry out policies beyond the most immediate and war-related matters. Our analysis is based on a systematic collection of expert reports, expert social media posts, and news media updates during the period Feb 2022 to March 2023.