On November 3, 2026, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) announced charges against Yulia Mendel, the former press secretary of the President of Ukraine, for treason. Mendel is accused of engaging in information subversive activities against Ukraine.
Charges and Legal Grounds
According to the SBU, Mendel is charged under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine:
- Part 2 of Article 111 — treason in conditions of martial law;
- Parts 2 and 3 of Article 436-2 — justification, recognition of legitimacy, and denial of armed aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine.
The investigation has established that Mendel, in her public statements and social media posts, has discredited Ukraine on the international stage and promoted narratives that justify the actions of the Kremlin.
Investigation Details
The SBU notes that as a result of comprehensive measures and expert evaluations, it has been confirmed that Mendel actively discredits Ukraine, specifically:
- publishing statements that undermine the international image of the country;
- justifying Russia's aggression and its military actions against Ukraine.
Currently, Yulia Mendel is abroad, and measures are underway to bring her to justice.