Zelensky imposes sanctions on former press secretary Mendel who echoed Russian propaganda

President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed sanctions on his former press secretary, Iuliia Mendel, on September 13, as part of a series of individual restrictions. Mendel had been echoing Russian propaganda, criticizing Zelensky, which marked a stark contrast from her previous praise of the Ukrainian leader. As a consequence of her actions, Mendel will forfeit her state awards, be barred from transferring capital out of Ukraine, and have her assets frozen.

She expressed her discontent with the decision by posting on X, stating that sanctions against Ukrainian citizens, like those imposed on her, are unconstitutional. Zelensky, she claimed, employs sanctions against anyone advocating for peace in Ukraine. Mendel also alleged that high treason charges are being prepared against her in connection with her interview with Tucker Carlson, asserting that she had anticipated the possibility of sanctions.

Despite the sanctions, Mendel remains unwavering in her stance, insisting her position has not changed. She has previously dismissed Zelensky as "a dictator" and the "greatest obstacle to peace" in Ukraine.