Petro Poroshenko publicly criticizes Zelensky and shares his views on sanctions and Ukraine’s political situation
Former Ukrainian president and MP Petro Poroshenko has given an interview to an international media outlet, where he voiced his disagreement with current President Volodymyr Zelensky's actions and shared his thoughts on sanctions imposed against him. According to the politician, Zelensky is trying to eliminate competition by any means, employing authoritarian tactics. Poroshenko states that during the war, he has not acted against the president and even urges unity and mutual understanding. He emphasizes that his political faction is the second largest in parliament, and accusations of blockades are violations of constitutional rights and are completely unjustified. He also references the experience of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he sees as a model of influencing key decisions through diplomacy. Poroshenko stresses that his main goal is not to confront Zelensky but to send him an important message that he stands by and is not his enemy, regardless of political differences, as unity is crucial at this moment. In February 2025, he was barred from accessing bank accounts, traveling abroad, and attending parliamentary sessions. He believes that there are communication issues between Ukrainian and American diplomatic teams, rooted in distrust towards Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Ukrainian Ambassador to the US Oksana Markarova. Despite this, he has attempted to improve relations with the Trump administration, visiting Washington in February and engaging in talks about bilateral relations as well as participating in the National Prayer Breakfast. Poroshenko notes that sanctions severely restrict his ability to support the Ukrainian army and participate in political life. He claims these restrictions aim to control his political future and prevent his participation in upcoming presidential elections. He calls on other politicians, including Zalužnyy, to recognize that this is an act of authoritarianism and political pressure. Background: On February 13, 2025, President Zelensky imposed sanctions on Petro Poroshenko, freezing assets, restricting trade, and banning participation in privatization. These measures are indefinite and aim to diminish Poroshenko's influence and activity. He finds these sanctions illegal, politically motivated, and has filed a lawsuit to have them rescinded. According to the National Bank, Poroshenko still holds a reputation as an honest businessman, despite the restrictions. His legal issues regarding the division of marital property and other cases continue. He believes that the joint lawsuit was meant to protect his family and prevent political pressure from the authorities. This situation highlights the tense and conflicted state of Ukrainian politics, widely discussed in media and political circles.