Zelenskyy urges diplomats to prepare for elections in partner countries

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the country's diplomats to step up efforts ahead of elections in key partner countries to counter Russian hybrid influence and ensure continued international support for Ukraine regardless of the election outcomes.

During the annual meeting with Ukrainian ambassadors in Kyiv on Monday, he said a very special period is beginning in countries that are important partners for Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

“Starting with elections in Germany's federal states in September, then Israel, the United States, and next year France and other countries. Russia never misses an opportunity to interfere in elections through hybrid operations, financial influence and destabilisation. We all understand these threats," Zelenskyy noted.

The Ukrainian president also urged diplomats to intensify efforts to strengthen relations with China to prevent Beijing from giving Russia its full support.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov