Fact check: Zelensky's former press secretary says she speaks for Ukrainians. Her claims tell a different story

A Zelensky aide-turned-critic, Iuliia Mendel argues that the Kyiv leadership and its Western allies stand in the way of peace — and that she is the genuine Ukrainian voice to cut through the lies.

Since her controversial appearance on U.S. podcaster Tucker Carlson's show in May, Zelensky's former press secretary has been increasingly accused of echoing Kremlin narratives, dressed up as a persecuted call for peace.

She sought another chance to deliver her message to international audiences on Sept. 16, when she was set to speak at the European Parliament in Strasbourg at an event organized by the far-right Kremlin-friendly Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Photo: Sergii Kharchenko / NurPhoto via Getty Images.