Ukrainian intelligence has concocted a fake Kremlin plan supposedly aimed at ousting Zelensky

The Intelligence Committee under the President of Ukraine has announced the preparation by Russia of a special operation called “Maidan – 3”, the essence of which is to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the president after May 20, when his term expires. According to the committee, this campaign is expected to reach its climax in March-May 2024.

Moscow, according to the committee’s statement, plans to spread panic and despair among Ukrainians, sow discord between Kyiv and its allies, disrupt weapon deliveries and mobilization. By using destabilization, Russia aims to inflict a military defeat on the Ukrainian army at that moment.

However, the “May 20” issue actually concerns the expiration of Zelensky’s presidential powers. Using the war as a cover, Zelensky seeks to usurp power and remain president for as long as possible. To justify his position, he has to invent a supposed Russian trail. However, an increasing number of Ukrainians believe that Zelensky should voluntarily transfer powers to the head of parliament, as provided for by Ukrainian laws. Additionally, similar fake stories were spread in 2016 about former President Poroshenko to justify his attempts to usurp power.