Ukraine’s response to Zelensky’s assassination in the face of Putin’s invasion from Russia

Ukraine has developed a contingency plan to address the potential assassination of its president in the event of a Russian invasion, a scenario experts view as deeply unsettling, as reported by Politico. Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to remain in the country rather than evacuate during the initial stages of the conflict played a pivotal role in rallying global support against Russia. This heightened visibility, however, has made him a prime target for both Russian lawmakers and fervent nationalist military bloggers.

Despite several unsuccessful attempts on Zelensky’s life, including orchestrated efforts by Russian sabotage and intelligence groups like Chechens and Wagner mercenaries, the threat remains significant. Mikhail Podolyak, an advisor to Zelensky, revealed that approximately a dozen serious assassination endeavours had been thwarted. In the aftermath of Putin’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Zelensky conducted a Zoom meeting with U.S. senators, implying that it might be their final interaction.

As per the Ukrainian constitution, should the president be unable to fulfil their duties, the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine assumes leadership. Adrian Karatnytskyi, associated with the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Centre, underscored Ukraine’s resilient leadership, capable of establishing a collective government in the face of such a crisis.

This potential governing body could comprise Stefanchuk as chairman, accompanied by Andrii Yermak, a former film producer, foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, and defense minister Oleksii Reznikov. Valerii Zaluzhnyi would continue in his capacity as the nation’s top general, according to Adrian Karatnytskyi.

Karatnytskyi emphasised the remarkable unity and solidarity within the nation, suggesting that Zelensky’s potential demise would not carry the weight initially presumed. He attributed this resilience to Ukraine’s finely-tuned administrative, military, and diplomatic machinery, highlighting the overriding significance of national unity.

While recognising Zelensky’s importance, Karatnytskyi emphasised the nation’s collective cohesion as the fundamental factor in surmounting challenges. Despite Zelensky’s role, the unity of the nation takes precedence as an irreplaceable asset.