Ukraine charges Zelensky's former press secretary Iuliia Mendel with treason

Ukrainian authorities have formally charged former President Volodymyr Zelensky's former press secretary and current critic, Iuliia Mendel, with treason while she is abroad. The Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office allege she engaged in information and subversive activities against Ukraine, as well as justifying the Kremlin regime and the ongoing full-scale war.

Mendel, who served as Zelensky's spokesperson from 2019 to 2021, has since become a vocal opponent, describing him as a "dictator." She has made several claims, some unverified and potentially misleading, that align closely with Russian perspectives. In May, she appeared on a podcast hosted by U.S. commentator Tucker Carlson, a known promoter of pro-Russian narratives.

This interview followed a 2019 book she authored praising Zelensky, despite her subsequent public criticism. Mendel also spoke at a side event at the invitation of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany party, an organization that has previously opposed military support for Ukraine and financial aid for Ukrainian refugees. The charges are based on Mendel's public statements and social media posts, specifically those alleging corruption within Zelensky's inner circle, suppression of free speech, and political persecution.

If proven, the accusation of treason would stem from actions taken during martial law. Mendel maintains her innocence, attributing the accusations to her public expressions in Western media and on social platforms, including discussions of corruption, free speech issues, and perceived political persecution. She argues that any alleged Russian collaboration would be explicitly documented by the accusers, which she claims does not exist. Zelensky has imposed sanctions on Mendel, further escalating the political tension.