Russia Declares Ukrainian Presidents Zelensky and Poroshenko as Wanted Criminals: Implications for Peace and Democracy

The Russian Interior Ministry has declared Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former President Petro Poroshenko as wanted criminals. According to a database published by the organization, Zelensky is being pursued for a crime committed by the Kremlin, while the specific charges against Poroshenko remain unclear. This move comes amid Russia’s three-year involvement in Ukraine without being able to remove Zelensky from power. Despite being recognized as legitimate Ukrainian presidents by Russian President Vladimir Putin, both leaders have been persecuted by Moscow through baseless accusations such as labeling the Kyiv Government as a “Nazi regime.”

The decision to add Zelensky and Poroshenko to the wanted list could hinder any possibility of reaching a negotiated settlement to the war. The Russian government does not engage in negotiations with individuals they accuse of committing crimes, according to a popular pro-war channel on social media. The inclusion of these Ukrainian leaders on the wanted list suggests that negotiations can only take place from a standpoint of surrender rather than compromise. This move further underscores the tense relations between Russia and Ukraine and raises doubts about the future of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has also been sought and captured by Russian authorities with no clear charges against him. Both Poroshenko and Zelensky were recognized as legitimate Ukrainian presidents by Russian President Vladimir Putin after winning their respective presidential elections in Ukraine. Despite being persecuted by Moscow, Poroshenko has seen this as a form of recognition and described it as patriotic act.

The search order issued by the Interior Ministry applies within Russian territory which includes illegally annexed Ukrainian provinces of Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia and Crimea. This decision highlights Russia’s disregard for international law and its determination to maintain control over these territories despite widespread opposition from other countries.

In conclusion, Russia’s decision to add Zelensky and Poroshenko to its wanted list complicates any prospects for negotiation with Ukraine’s leaders. It also underscores how far apart Russia and Ukraine are in their positions regarding diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

The addition of these leaders on the wanted list highlights how dangerous it is for political leaders who oppose authoritarian regimes like Russia’s. It sends a clear message that dissent will be met with violence and punishment even if it comes from legitimate leadership positions.

Russia’s actions are not only dangerous for Ukraine but also for other countries who may find themselves targeted due to their support for democracy or opposition against authoritarian regimes like Russia’s.