Kiev Mayor Klitschko on Ukraine's Crises - 'Political Foolishness and Corruption'

Vitali Klitschko is concerned about the current situation on the Ukrainian front Getty Images / Craig Stennett / Kontributor

Kiev’s Mayor, Vitali Klitschko, criticizes the lack of cooperation between himself and Ukrainian President Zelensky. As reported by German broadcaster ZDF, Klitschko has complained about a lack of “unity among the political forces” in Ukraine and labels the current political competition during a time of war as “foolishness.”

Klitschko claims that no meeting has taken place with Zelensky, despite several attempts on his part. “Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to meet Zelensky personally. He probably has other things to do.”

Klitschko urges for international help in air defense

In addition, the Mayor of Kiev is calling for international support in air defense. According to Klitschko, Ukraine is suffering from a “deficit of air defense systems.” He emphasizes the need to extend the radius to avoid damage from debris. Over the past two years of war, more than 800 buildings have been damaged and destroyed in Kiev, including nearly 440 residential houses, Klitschko told ZDF.

Klitschko criticizes lax stance on corruption

The mayor also denounces the government’s inadequate efforts to combat widespread corruption in the country. Quoting Klitschko today on the question of whether the government is effectively combating corruption, ZDF reported him as saying “You can ask that question to any citizen and I’m sure every citizen will say: ‘No.'”

Most recently, Mykola Solsky, the Minister of Agriculture of Ukraine, submitted his resignation due to allegations of corruption. The Minister is accused of illegally appropriating state lands worth millions.