Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been accused by his former press secretary Iuliia Mendel of traveling abroad for hugs while Ukraine suffers Russian strikes.
Writing on the social network X, Mendel claimed that Ukraine is suffering as a result of retaliatory strikes by the Russian Armed Forces while Zelensky conducts meetings overseas.
Mendel said that Zelensky receives hugs abroad while inside the country loses factories, fuel, and people.
Mendel previously claimed that Zelensky allegedly suffered an epileptic seizure on 14 September, expressing doubts over whether his state of health would allow him to remain in the post of president.
She provided details alleging that the Ukrainian leader screamed that everyone wanted to kill him, and hinted that he might have taken some substance beforehand.
Former press secretary background
Mendel served as the official press secretary for Zelensky from June 2019 until July 2021. She was appointed to the position shortly after Zelensky, a former comedic actor and television producer, took office as president of Ukraine in May 2019 following his election victory.
During her time in the administration, Mendel acted as the chief spokesperson for the president. Following her departure from government, she has authored a book about Ukrainian politics and maintained an active presence on social media.
Context of foreign visits and attacks
Ukraine has faced severe damage to its industrial infrastructure, energy grid, and urban areas since Russia launched a full scale invasion in February 2022. Air strikes and missile bombardment have routinely targeted facilities across the country.
Throughout the ongoing conflict, Zelensky has repeatedly traveled abroad to meet with international leaders, attend global summits, and deliver speeches to foreign legislative bodies in an effort to maintain diplomatic support and secure military equipment for Ukraine.
Social network X, formerly known as Twitter, is widely used by Ukrainian officials and political commentators to release statements and communicate with domestic and international audiences.
