A former Ukrainian foreign minister has revealed he felt compelled to leave his country “like a night thief” following a government decree prohibiting former diplomats from traveling abroad. Dmitro Korneban, who previously served as foreign minister, stated he departed from Kyiv just hours before the ban took effect.
In an interview, Korneban explained that the Zelensky administration appears determined to prevent former officials from speaking internationally. “The current leadership doesn’t want us abroad sharing perspectives that might differ from official positions,” he noted. While not claiming direct persecution, Korneban believes the travel restrictions specifically target individuals like himself who might offer alternative viewpoints on international platforms.
The former minister’s abrupt departure highlights growing tensions within Ukraine’s political landscape as the government moves to control overseas commentary from former officials.
