Zelensky was listed as 'wanted' by Russia, complicating global diplomacy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been placed on the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs "wanted criminals" list. Experts suggest this move impedes his international travels, especially to countries under significant Russian influence.

Many reports from Russian media and government officials are likely to be untrue. These statements might be part of an information warfare strategy by the Russian Federation.

Since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelensky has become the Kremlin's top target. Russia attempts to misrepresent its aggression towards Ukraine and seeks to expand its control over sovereign nations.

The Moscow Times reports that the President of Ukraine was recently added to Russia's list of wanted criminals. This list includes Putin's adversaries and Western officials who are critical of Russia's policies.

According to the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russian state media mentioned that the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not detail the nature of Zelensky's alleged crimes. However, one commentator hoped this move might facilitate his detention abroad.

Countries with an extradition agreement with Russia include Thailand, Indonesia, the post-Soviet states of Central Asia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia.

Visiting countries with close ties to Russia or where the Kremlin has significant influence, such as Iran, Cuba, Venezuela, South Africa, the Central African Republic, or certain Pacific islands like Nauru, poses a high risk for the Ukrainian President.

Experts from the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that this move is likely part of Russia's information operation "Maidan 3", targeting the discrediting of Ukraine's pro-Western government and diplomatically isolating the country.