Unpacking consequences of Russia declaring Zelenskyy wanted — Oleh Shamshur

5 May 2024, 06:07 PM

Former Ukrainian ambassador to the US in 2005-2010 and to France in 2014-2020, Oleh Shamshur, revealed on Radio NV the multifaceted objectives behind Russia’s announcement of a search for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"In my opinion, it won't have practical consequences. It's evidence of Kremlin paranoia and designed to destabilize our political leadership psychologically. These are worthless pretensions," Shamshur said.

The diplomat also sees the message as a signal to the domestic Russian audience, suggesting Russia's capability to act decisively.

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"I can see this as a response to the International Criminal Court's warrant for Putin's arrest. It's one of Russia's moves in response. There are several goals here, but it's worthless in any case," added Shamshur.

The day before, on May 4, Russia announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is on their wanted list.

He was accompanied by Petro Poroshenko, Ukraine's fifth president, and Oleksandr Pavlyuk, Ground Forces commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

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