“We are asking not for a simulation of dialogue, but for a real opportunity to be heard”

A public petition demanding that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hold an unscripted press conference with independent journalists has gathered the required 25,000 signatures. According to the Kyiv Post, the online initiative officially crossed the required threshold and now awaits formal presidential consideration. Organizers published the appeal on the official presidential website on August 27 with a campaign window running through November 27.

The petition specifically calls for a dedicated media event where journalists can question government officials regarding domestic policy and controversial administration decisions. Supporters emphasize the necessity of addressing key public concerns and grievances raised during recent domestic protests across Ukraine. Crucially, the appeal demands that participating journalists be permitted to ask questions without any prior agreement or content screening by government staff.

The authors of the petition explicitly outlined their desire for authentic civic engagement with the country’s highest leadership. Organizers stated, “We are asking not for a simulation of dialogue, but for a real opportunity to be heard.” This direct quote highlights growing frustration among civil society groups over perceived media management by government communications teams.

Independent media outlets and specific demands

The petition specifically names several prominent Ukrainian and international news organizations to participate in the proposed briefing. Listed outlets include Ukrainska Pravda, Bihus.Info, Slidstvo.Info, Suspilne, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Other major platforms highlighted in the document include hromadske, NV, Dzerkalo Tyzhnia, BBC Ukraine, and Liga.net.

Supporters argue that public-interest journalism requires direct and unvetted access to executive decision-makers during times of national crisis. Independent news organizations have played a critical role in investigating official corruption and monitoring government spending throughout the ongoing war. Media advocates maintain that holding open Q&A sessions strengthens public trust in state institutions.

Reaching the 25,000-signature threshold legally requires the presidential administration to review the request and issue an official response. However, Ukrainian law does not strictly obligate the president to grant the specific terms demanded within the petition. Civil society groups continue to monitor the presidential office to see whether the administration will agree to the requested press conference.

Evolving presidential communications and context

President Zelensky last held a major open press conference for domestic and foreign journalists in February 2025. Since that event, the Ukrainian leader has largely restricted his press engagements to foreign trips and joint international briefings. The administration has also selectively answered questions through social media chats and controlled media interviews.

Critics argue that these limited formats prevent journalists from pressing the president on difficult domestic policy matters. While foreign briefings focus heavily on international military aid, domestic media seek clarity on anti-corruption efforts and internal governance. The petition reflects a broader push by Ukrainian journalists to restore regular press access to top government officials.

As the petition awaits formal review, public interest in the presidential response remains high across the nation. Media watchdogs view the outcome as an important test of democratic accountability and press freedom during wartime. The presidential office is expected to release a formal statement regarding the petition in the coming weeks.

This article is made and published by Lauge Risom Koch, who may have used AI in the preparation