Julia Mendel Faces Charges of Treason Amid Ongoing SBU and Prosecutor General Investigations

Julia Mendel Accused of Treason in Absentia

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Office of the Prosecutor General have formally charged Julia Mendel with treason and endorsing Russia’s armed aggression against Ukraine. These charges relate to Part 2 of Article 111 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, which addresses treason during martial law, as well as Parts 2 and 3 of Article 436-2, concerning justification, legitimization, denial of Russia’s military aggression, and glorification of its perpetrators.

Mendel is accused of undermining Ukraine’s international standing and supporting the Kremlin’s regime as well as the full-scale war against Ukraine. She is currently outside Ukraine, and the investigation remains active. The Main Investigation Department of the SBU is handling the case under the guidance of the Prosecutor General’s Office.

Sanctions and Controversial Statements

On September 13, President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed sanctions against Julia Mendel. She served as President Zelensky’s press secretary from June 2019 until July 2021. After stepping down, Mendel continued her career as a columnist and commentator on Ukrainian politics for foreign media outlets. In May 2023, she gave an interview to American commentator Tucker Carlson, accusing President Zelensky of several serious offenses.

• Mendel claimed Zelensky had "personally agreed to hand over Donbas."
• She also stated she "met many people who confirmed seeing him using drugs in various clubs."

These allegations sparked widespread public controversy.

According to Article 62, Part 1 of the Ukrainian Constitution, a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court. Therefore, Mendel’s future remains uncertain while investigations continue.

This case highlights the critical importance of addressing treason and justifying aggression during wartime, as such acts pose significant threats to Ukraine’s national security.

Charges of this nature can also affect Ukraine’s international reputation and diplomatic relations. Ensuring a transparent and impartial investigation is essential to prevent political exploitation and to uphold justice throughout the process.