10 December 2025, 15:46

Expert: Corruption scandal in Ukraine has made Zelensky controllable

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MINSK, 10 December (BelTA) – Following the high-profile corruption scandal in Ukraine’s energy sector, Washington may now be pressuring Vladimir Zelensky, pushing him toward peace talks, military and political observer Mikhail Onufriyenko said in a new episode of the V Teme [On Point] project on BelTA’s YouTube channel.

Commenting on the scandal, the observer noted that it has given the U.S. leverage to make Zelensky more compliant. “Zelensky isn’t being directly accused, but the implication is there and surfaces in certain documents,” stated Mikhail Onufriyenko.

He also pointed out that another figure connected to the case is Rustem Umerov, the former Defense Minister and current Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council. Rustem Umerov is presently in the United States leading the Ukrainian negotiating team. “He is a very controllable person who could shift from witness to accused at any moment. Naturally, he’ll say whatever is required and will pressure Zelensky, explaining the ‘party line,’” the expert argued.

Consequently, Mikhail Onufriyenko believes Washington could remove Zelensky if necessary, possibly as early as next year. “They will declare Zelensky a ‘bad guy’ who must resign unless he wants to face trial or be eliminated. He’ll have to step down voluntarily and call elections,” the observer concluded.