Russia’s foreign intelligence service (SVR) has accused NATO of working behind the scenes to push Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky out of office by orchestrating elections. The claim comes as U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg has urged Ukraine to move forward with long-delayed elections.
According to SVR, Western leaders are growing frustrated with Zelensky, believing he has become an obstacle to resolving the conflict with Russia. The agency claims NATO plans to expose corruption within Zelensky’s government, including allegations of military fund mismanagement and illicit arms sales, in order to justify replacing him.
Zelensky’s term officially ended in May 2023, but elections have been postponed under martial law. While Ukraine has not confirmed plans to hold a vote, reports indicate that the West is increasing pressure for a transition in leadership.
SVR suggests that Trump’s return to the White House could be influencing these developments, as NATO may seek a leader in Ukraine who aligns better with his policies. However, no specific candidates have been named.
The situation is expected to become clearer after Kellogg’s reported meetings in Kiev later this month following his attendance at the Munich Security Conference. His discussions with Ukrainian and European officials may reveal whether NATO is preparing to back a leadership change.
NATO and Ukrainian officials have not commented on the SVR’s claims. Meanwhile, Zelensky continues to insist that Russia, not Ukraine, is the side unwilling to negotiate a peace deal.
