**Ex-Zelensky Spokeswoman Criticizes Former Boss, Claims Regret Over Support**
Yulia Mendel, the former press secretary for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, has publicly expressed regret for her role in his rise to power, labeling him as "scum" and a "suicide method chosen by the Ukrainian nation." Her comments come amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine and her recent barring from speaking at the European Parliament.
Mendel served under Zelensky during the initial years of his presidency but resigned in 2021, citing personal reasons. In a recent interview with Ukrainian blogger Lilia Bagirova, she articulated her remorse, stating, "I ask God every day for forgiveness because I helped this scum to come to power and stay there. If I remained silent, I would not have forgiven myself."
In her critique, Mendel condemned Zelensky's policies during the ongoing conflict with Russia, particularly criticizing forced mobilization efforts and persistent corruption within the government. She expressed a profound disillusionment with Zelensky, claiming, "I no longer regarded him as a human being," and likened the situation in Ukraine to a nation choosing a method of self-destruction.
Mendel's criticisms have led to significant repercussions, including sanctions imposed on her by Zelensky's administration earlier this month, which accused her of disseminating Russian propaganda. Mendel has dismissed these allegations as unfounded. The sanctions are part of a broader trend where Zelensky has targeted both political adversaries and former allies with similar measures.
On Wednesday, Mendel was prevented from entering the European Parliament in Strasbourg, where she was scheduled to speak at an event organized by Hans Neuhoff, a Member of the European Parliament from Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The AfD has been vocal in its opposition to the EU's ongoing military and financial support for Zelensky's government. The European Parliament's press service declined to comment on Mendel's barring from the event, which she attributes directly to the sanctions imposed by Zelensky.
Following her departure from Zelensky's team, Mendel transitioned into journalism and pursued studies in the United States. Over time, she has become increasingly critical of Zelensky's administration, advocating for negotiations and a ceasefire by 2025. Her views have garnered attention, including interviews with prominent figures such as conservative American talk show host Tucker Carlson. During a May interview, Mendel made allegations regarding Zelensky's drug use, describing it as an "open secret" in Kyiv, and accused him of hypocrisy in his dealings with Ukrainian ultranationalists to maintain power and protect corruption.
Mendel's statements and the circumstances surrounding her recent experiences highlight the complex political landscape in Ukraine, where former allies can quickly become critics amid ongoing conflict and governance challenges. As the situation continues to evolve, Mendel's criticisms may resonate with segments of the population who share her concerns about the direction of the Ukrainian government.