What's happened
President Zelensky has revoked Gennadiy Trukhanov's Ukrainian citizenship amid allegations of possessing a Russian passport. Zelensky appointed a military administration to govern Odesa, citing unresolved security issues. Trukhanov denies the accusations and plans to contest the decision in court. The move reflects ongoing tensions over local governance during wartime.
What's behind the headline?
The revocation of Trukhanov's citizenship and appointment of a military administration in Odesa signals Ukraine's intensified centralization of power during wartime. Zelensky's move, justified by security concerns, underscores a broader pattern of sidelining elected officials under martial law. Critics argue this risks undermining local democracy, especially given Trukhanov's long-standing role and his past pro-Russian associations. The allegations of possessing a Russian passport, supported by a leaked image, are part of a wider crackdown on figures perceived as collaborators or with dual loyalties. This strategy aims to strengthen Kyiv's control over critical regions but may deepen political rifts and fuel accusations of authoritarianism. The decision's timing, amid ongoing military threats and regional instability, suggests Zelensky prioritizes security over local electoral legitimacy. The long-term impact will depend on whether this centralization stabilizes security or exacerbates regional tensions, especially in a city as culturally complex as Odesa.
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post reports Zelensky's decree and the appointment of a military administration, emphasizing security concerns and ongoing political tensions. The Independent highlights Trukhanov's denial and plans to challenge the revocation in court, framing it within broader conflicts over wartime governance. Al Jazeera provides context on the accusations of Russian citizenship and Zelensky's broader crackdown on pro-Russian figures, noting the political implications and the potential for increased repression. All sources agree on the core facts but differ in tone: SCMP emphasizes security, The Independent focuses on legal challenges, and Al Jazeera underscores political repression and regional influences.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has increased central control over key cities, citing security concerns. Odesa, a strategic port with Russian cultural influences, has seen political shifts, including the appointment of military administrations. Zelensky's actions follow accusations of dual citizenship and pro-Russian ties against local officials, amid broader efforts to consolidate authority during wartime.
Go deeper
More on these topics
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Gennadiy Leonidovich Trukhanov is the mayor of Odessa. He has been named as part of a Ukrainian crime syndicate who laundered money through London by buying multi-million pound properties in the city.
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The Security Service of Ukraine or SBU, is Ukraine's law-enforcement authority and main government security agency in the areas of counterintelligence activity and combating terrorism.
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Sergei Vladimirovich Polunin is a Soviet-born ballet dancer, actor and model. He has Ukrainian, Russian, and Serbian citizenship, but has "always regarded himself as Russian".