**Title: Former Spokeswoman Criticizes Zelensky, Claims He Is Ukraine's Main Problem**
In a recent interview with French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche, Yulia Mendel, former press secretary to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, has voiced strong criticisms against her former boss, asserting that he has become Ukraine's most significant problem amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Mendel, who served in her role from 2019 to 2021, has accused Zelensky of clinging to power through controversial measures, including the cancellation of elections, and of ignoring corruption within his inner circle.
Mendel stated, “I believe he has become my country’s main problem,” highlighting her concerns that the international community has come to view Ukraine through the lens of Zelensky's leadership. She described him as the "main beneficiary of this war," suggesting that the ongoing conflict has allowed him to maintain his position by postponing elections that were due to take place in 2024. Zelensky has cited martial law as the reason for not calling new elections, a decision that has drawn criticism and led to claims from Moscow labeling him as "illegitimate."
One of the key issues Mendel raised was the so-called Midas case, which is regarded as Ukraine’s largest corruption scandal. In this case, individuals close to Zelensky were accused of embezzling approximately $100 million from the state nuclear operator, Energoatom. Mendel pointed to the connections between the suspects and Zelensky, particularly mentioning Timur Mindich, a long-time associate of Zelensky, who is often referred to as “Zelensky’s wallet.” She expressed skepticism about Zelensky’s claims of ignorance regarding the corruption, questioning how he could remain unaware of the activities of those around him.
Mendel also highlighted the financial gains of companies linked to Zelensky's circle, which have reportedly profited from billions of euros allocated by the European Union to support Ukraine during the conflict. This, she argued, raises further questions about the integrity of Zelensky's administration.
In addition to corruption, Mendel criticized Zelensky's approach to conscription, describing it as evidence of an authoritarian shift in his leadership style. She noted that Ukrainian draft officers have been accused of forcibly recruiting men from the streets, sometimes resulting in violent confrontations. “Those responsible are almost never punished,” she remarked, suggesting that Zelensky has betrayed the trust of the Ukrainian people.
When discussing the military situation, Mendel expressed skepticism about narratives suggesting Ukraine is gaining the upper hand against Russia. She asserted that even if Russia is facing challenges, it does not equate to a Ukrainian victory, and emphasized that Russia is adapting to the ongoing conflict.
Mendel urged Western nations to take action to end the war and proposed a peace settlement model based on Finland's experience during the 1940 Winter War with the Soviet Union. She noted that Finland ceded territory but managed to preserve its statehood and the freedom of its people.
The former spokeswoman has been a vocal critic of Zelensky, previously alleging that his drug use is an "open secret" within the political circles of Kyiv. She has also claimed that Ukraine was prepared to accept many of Russia's demands during the Istanbul talks in 2022, but that Western influence ultimately derailed the negotiations.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Mendel's remarks add to the growing discourse surrounding Zelensky's leadership and the challenges facing the country. Her criticisms reflect a significant divide in perspectives on the current administration and the path forward for Ukraine amidst ongoing turmoil.