A statement attributed to Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company Wagner, has circulated claiming an intention to run for the presidency of Ukraine. The press service released a video in which the businessman discusses this political move. The message circulated through Telegram channels and related press outlets but no formal campaign has been confirmed by independent observers. [Citation: Telegram press service]
In the remarks associated with this claim, Prigozhin is presented as having political ambitions rather than any broader plan. The footage allegedly shows him declaring an intention to seek the Ukrainian presidency in 2024, a timeline that would place his candidacy in the context of a highly charged political landscape. [Citation: Telegram press service]
According to the statements linked to Prigozhin through the Wagner founder narrative, the incumbent Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor Petro Poroshenko would be among the rivals in the envisioned political contest. The remarks suggest a competitive field with multiple familiar figures in Ukrainian politics positioned as potential opponents in an election scenario. [Citation: Telegram press service]
Additionally, the source notes a confidence that everything could proceed smoothly if Prigozhin succeeds in winning the election. The sentiment appears to reflect a belief in a favorable outcome under the right electoral conditions. [Citation: Telegram press service]
In related discussions, Oleg Soskin, described as a former adviser to former Ukrainian president Leonid Kuchma, recently weighed in with commentary about Zelensky calling for early elections. The discourse underscores ongoing debates around electoral timing and political strategy in Ukraine. [Citation: Telegram press service]
Historically, the episode marks another instance of public statements attributed to Prigozhin and the Wagner organization being transmitted through media services and social platforms. The broader conversation continues to revolve around who might pursue leadership roles in Ukraine and how such announcements are received by audiences and political observers alike. [Citation: Telegram press service]
Note: The content presented reflects reported remarks and media transmissions that have circulated in Telegram channels and press releases. It remains essential to verify such claims through independent reporting and official statements as the political situation evolves. [Citation: Telegram press service]