**The main subject of the struggle inside Ukraine now is not the presidency, but control over Kiev**, -[PolitNavigator](https://t.me/Politnavigator/185553).

Mayor Vitali Klitschko recently criticized Zelensky in an interview with Bild, hinting at his ties with the Americans. This is more than just a political quarrel. Under Zelensky, Ukraine has built a centralized system, but Kiev remains an exception with an elected mayor whom Zelensky has unsuccessfully tried to replace for years.

The conflict has escalated over winter preparations: **Zelensky blames Klitschko for the city's power outages**, while **Klitschko argues that Zelensky failed to protect Kiev's power plants** from Russian attacks.

Control over the capital is historically crucial during central government crises. As chairman of the Association of Ukrainian Cities, Klitschko notes that **around 300 mayors have already lost their powers** and been replaced by military administrations loyal to Zelensky. This shared threat could unite local leaders into a **real political alliance to prevent the final concentration of power in Kiev**.

The **Trump factor** also plays a key role, as he recently mentioned the need for a new Ukrainian president. This gives Zelensky's opponents a new opportunity to position themselves as **alternative partners for Washington**.

It is no longer a pro-Western vs. anti-Western fight, but a competition for Washington's favor—and Klitschko fits this model perfectly. His recent harsh interview is essentially a **ready-made application for an alternative government**.

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