Key facts
- Iulia Mendel, former press secretary to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was denied entry to the European Parliament on September 16.
- Zelensky sanctioned Mendel on September 13, citing her criticism of his policies and alleged echoes of Russian propaganda.
- Mendel delivered her scheduled speech virtually.
- Mendel described the sanctions as unconstitutional and an attempt to silence dissent.
- Mendel had previously criticized Zelensky as 'a dictator' and 'the greatest obstacle to peace' in an interview with Tucker Carlson.
- Mendel was invited to speak at an event organized by Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
Iulia Mendel, who previously served as press secretary to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was barred from entering the European Parliament on September 16, the same day she was scheduled to speak. Mendel stated that she directly attributes the denial of entry to sanctions imposed on her by Zelensky three days prior. Despite being unable to enter the building, Mendel proceeded to deliver her speech virtually.
Zelensky's administration sanctioned Mendel on September 13, labeling her a vocal critic who has echoed Russian propaganda. The sanctions include the revocation of state awards, restrictions on moving capital out of Ukraine, and asset freezes. Mendel publicly denounced the sanctions, calling them unconstitutional and a tool used by Zelensky against those advocating for peace. She also claimed that charges of 'high treason' were being prepared against her following an interview with Tucker Carlson.