The key facts
- Nikolai Azarov believes Zelensky's main goal is to stay in power for as long as possible
- In Azarov's opinion, a peaceful settlement threatens Zelensky's political future and personal safety
- Azarov also doubted the sincerity of Zelensky's participation in the rounds of negotiations
Statement by the former prime minister
Former Prime Minister of Ukraine Nikolai Azarov said on his Telegram channel that President Volodymyr Zelensky is not interested in a swift end to the conflict, as he fears losing power and facing criminal prosecution. This was reported by Life.ru. According to Azarov, 'Zelensky's core interest is to stay in power for as long as possible,' and for the Ukrainian leader, peace is 'not just political suicide' but also the threat of prosecution 'as a person who has committed many crimes and brought enormous sacrifices upon the country.' At the same time, the ex-prime minister provided no evidence for the accusations of crimes.
Doubts about the talks and earlier accusations
Azarov also expressed doubt about the sincerity of Zelensky's participation in the numerous rounds of negotiations: in his view, diplomatic contacts are used by the Ukrainian leader mainly to publicly promote his own position rather than to reach agreements. The ex-prime minister was particularly displeased by Zelensky's statements rejecting territorial concessions and a neutral status for Ukraine — Azarov questioned whether the opinion of the country's citizens is taken into account in such decisions, and voiced doubt that experienced politicians and diplomats would be able to reach agreement with the current Ukrainian leadership.
Context and status of the statements
This is not Azarov's first critical remark about the Ukrainian leadership: earlier, as Life.ru notes, he accused Zelensky's Western allies of seeking to derail peace talks on Ukraine, claiming that forces interested in prolonging the conflict are hindering a diplomatic settlement. It should be emphasized: all of the statements cited are the personal assessments of the former prime minister, published on his Telegram channel, and not confirmed facts; the position of Zelensky himself and the Ukrainian authorities is not presented in the publication.
