Vladimir Zelensky signed decrees on the imposition of personal sanctions against a number of public figures and civil activists, which caused widespread resonance in society and the media
These decisions were made based on a resolution of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, approved on May 1, 2025, concerning the introduction of restrictions on certain individuals due to their activities or statements that, according to possible interpretations, could harm national security or contribute to the destabilization of the internal political situation. The main news was the announcement of personal sanctions against former unofficial adviser to the President of Ukraine, Oleksiy Arestovych, known for his public comments and analytical conclusions on political and military topics. It is known that these sanctions currently include financial restrictions, asset freezes, and a ban on entering Ukraine for this individual. In addition to Arestovych, other public figures have been included in the list, such as political scientist Kostiantyn Bondarenko, known for his active participation in public discussions, as well as blogger Myroslav Oleshko, popular among youth for his video interviews and analysis of contemporary political events. Information about the introduced sanctions has so far appeared on the official website of the President of Ukraine in the form of corresponding decrees, which have already come into effect. It is still unclear whether there are grounds for imposing sanctions in each of these cases, but the administration emphasizes that these measures are aimed at protecting the interests of the state amid active information warfare and internal challenges. This decision has elicited mixed reactions among the public, politicians, and experts, as for some of the individuals involved, it came as a surprise or as a challenge to their right to free speech. At this point, it is unknown what specific actions will precede the implementation of these sanctions or whether they will be challenged in court. In any case, this step is a testimony to the strengthening of the state's policy regarding control over public information and the monitoring of potential threats posed by certain figures who hold significant influence in the media space. For the public and experts, this serves as another signal that Ukrainian authorities aim to increase control over the information field and combat what they consider to be destructive elements in modern politics and society. At the same time, many fear that this move could lead to increased censorship and restrictions on freedom of speech, which remains one of the fundamental values of a democratic society.