Russia’s foreign intelligence agency (SVR) has accused NATO of seeking to remove Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky through elections, claiming that Western leaders are looking to shift Ukraine’s leadership to one more open to negotiations with Russia.
SVR alleges that the West has grown frustrated with Zelensky’s refusal to engage in peace talks and is now working to discredit him through accusations of financial misconduct. The claims include the misuse of military funds and the sale of Western-supplied weapons, which the intelligence agency says will be used to justify pushing Zelensky out.
The Ukrainian president’s term ended in May 2023, but elections have been postponed under martial law. Recently, U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg called for Ukraine to move forward with elections, adding to speculation that the West is looking for an alternative leader.
Reports indicate that Washington and Brussels may see elections as a way to transition Ukraine’s leadership while preserving NATO’s influence in the region. Moscow claims that Trump’s return to office has further complicated the situation, as NATO could be considering a leader more aligned with his policies.
Zelensky has not confirmed whether he will run if elections are scheduled. Meanwhile, NATO has not responded to the claims made by SVR, and Ukraine continues to insist that Russia is responsible for stalling peace talks.
Kellogg is expected to visit Kiev later this month following his participation in the Munich Security Conference. His meetings with Ukrainian and European officials may shed light on whether NATO is preparing for a leadership shift in Ukraine.
