Russia adds Zelenskyy and Poroshenko to wanted list amid escalating tensions

Both Zelenskyy and his predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, were listed on the ministry's roster of individuals wanted for unspecified criminal charges as of Saturday afternoon. Additionally, Gen. Oleksandr Pavlyuk, the commander of Ukraine's ground forces, was also included.

Russian officials have not provided clarification regarding the allegations against any of the individuals. Mediazona, an independent Russian news outlet, asserted that both Zelenskyy and Poroshenko have been on the list since at least late February.

In response to the reports, Ukraine’s foreign ministry released an online statement on the same day, dismissing Zelenskyy’s alleged inclusion as evidence of “the desperation of the Russian state machine and propaganda.”

The wanted list compiled by Russia also encompasses numerous officials and lawmakers from Ukraine and NATO countries. Notably, Kaja Kallas, the prime minister of NATO and EU member Estonia, is among those listed. Kallas has been a staunch advocate for increased military aid to Kyiv and stronger sanctions against Moscow. (ILKHA)