Zelensky sanctions former press secretary Mendel after critical statements

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on his former press secretary, Iuliia Mendel, following her critical public statements about his leadership. The sanctions, enacted by a presidential decree published on September 14, 2026, include a 10-year asset freeze, a ban on transferring capital abroad, restrictions on social media use within Ukraine, and the indefinite stripping of state honors. Mendel, who served as Zelensky's press secretary from 2019 to 2021, has become a vocal critic of his government. The sanctions were announced shortly before her scheduled address to the European Parliament later this week. In response, Mendel stated on social media that the measures are unconstitutional and accused Zelensky of using them against anyone advocating for peace in Ukraine. The decree places Mendel alongside nine other individuals, including entities linked to Russia's shadow fleet and defense suppliers. She was the only Ukrainian citizen among those sanctioned. The government has accused Mendel of spreading Russian propaganda and supporting Russia's aggressive policy toward Ukraine.