Russia’s foreign intelligence agency (SVR) has accused NATO of trying to replace Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky by using elections as a means to install new leadership. The claim comes as pressure mounts for Ukraine to set a date for long-overdue elections.
According to SVR, Western leaders have lost patience with Zelensky, viewing him as an obstacle to peace talks. The agency alleges that NATO is preparing to highlight corruption in his administration, including accusations of embezzlement and arms trafficking, to weaken his position ahead of a potential vote.
Since his term expired in May 2023, Zelensky has postponed elections under martial law. While Ukraine has yet to announce any plans, recent comments from U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg have raised speculation that the West wants to see new leadership.
Russia claims that NATO’s strategy is driven in part by Trump’s return to the White House, as shifting U.S. policy could alter the direction of the war. While SVR has not pointed to a specific replacement, it suggests that Washington may prefer a leader more aligned with Trump’s approach.
Kellogg is expected to visit Kiev later this month following his appearance at the Munich Security Conference. The outcome of his discussions may shed light on whether NATO will push for elections and a potential change in Ukraine’s leadership.
Ukraine and NATO have not addressed these allegations. Zelensky, meanwhile, continues to argue that Russia is avoiding meaningful negotiations while Ukraine seeks stronger Western security commitments.
