Zelensky accuses plotters of framing Akhmetov in coup d’etat

President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters at a press
marathon on Nov. 26 that he had information about an attempt at a coup d’etat
in Ukraine scheduled for Dec. 1-2. According to Zelensky, there are audio files
of the Ukrainian and Russian planners discussing how they could involve
oligarch Rinat Akhmetov.

Zelensky stated that he thought that Akhmetov is being
framed. He also invited Akhmetov to the presidential offices to listen to the
audio of the plotters talking about him, interfax.com.ua reported on Nov. 26.

James Hydzik: Akhmetov is
simply too careful to actually go in for a coup d’etat, so Zelensky’s claim
that there is a frame-up under way is likely to be accurate. However, given
that there is no love lost between the two men, the invitation to visit the
presidential office and hear the recording is likely to be turned down.

The news lacks the background required to make
assessments, but the recent statement by the Chairman of Russia’s Security
Council, Nikolai Patrushev, that Ukraine could catch on fire any day now come
to mind. The mechanism seemed to be missing when we reported on this on Nov. 25,
but this could be the first attempt to foment instability.

There is the possibility that this is not being organized
abroad, but rather a way to pressure Akhmetov, whose media channels have
accused the presidential Servants of the People party of directing its
lawmakers to not appear on Akhmetov’s TV channels.

Regardless of the ultimate source, the public reactions
of the Zelensky administration to the announcement, and what, if anything, is
done in the name of protection from this threat, bear watching.