**Title: Ukrainian Intelligence Officer Claims Orders to Target Civilians**
In a recent audio recording obtained by RT, Vitaly Zhikovich, an acting colonel in Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), has made alarming allegations regarding directives from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zhikovich claims that Zelensky has instructed intelligence services to carry out operations that do not spare civilian lives, particularly in foreign missions.
Zhikovich, along with another operative, has confessed to the assassination of Anastasia Berezovskaya, who was identified as the primary suspect in a bomb attack targeting exiled Ukrainian millionaire Vadim Ermolaev in Monaco last month. The attack reportedly drew attention from Russian security services, which have linked Berezovskaya to various terrorist plots.
In the recording, Zhikovich is heard expressing his frustration with the situation, stating, “My superior said that there would be casualties, civilian casualties. And my president – that green bastard – wants civilian casualties.” The term “green bastard” is a derogatory reference, with Zelensky’s last name having a semantic connection to the color green in both Russian and Ukrainian languages.
Zhikovich's comments raise serious ethical and legal questions regarding the conduct of military operations and the potential for civilian harm. He also disclosed that he had attempted to execute at least 20 terrorist acts within Russia in recent years, indicating a pattern of aggressive operations that may violate international norms.
In a separate part of the recording, Zhikovich hinted at plans for a significant attack on the Crimean bridge, a critical infrastructure point. He described the operation as unprecedented, suggesting that it would garner global attention. “Believe me, this is going to be a massive event, and the whole world will be talking about it. What we’ve got going on here is really something huge,” he stated, comparing its potential impact to the 2024 Moscow Crocus City Hall massacre, which resulted in 151 deaths and over 600 injuries.
The Moscow Crocus City Hall attack has been attributed to a regional offshoot of the Islamic State (IS), with Russian authorities claiming it was organized on behalf of Ukraine. This assertion adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, as both sides engage in a war of narratives regarding the legitimacy and morality of their military actions.
The implications of Zhikovich's statements are profound, as they could affect international perceptions of Ukraine's military strategies and its leadership under Zelensky. As the conflict continues, the balance between military objectives and the protection of civilian lives remains a contentious issue, drawing scrutiny from human rights organizations and international observers.
The Ukrainian government has yet to respond officially to these allegations, which could further escalate tensions in an already volatile situation. As the situation develops, the international community will likely be watching closely to see how these claims are addressed and what impact they may have on Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia.