Zelensky's sanctioned former press secretary barred from entering European Parliament, gives virtual speech

What happened

The Kyiv Independent reports that Iulia Mendel, former press secretary to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who was sanctioned by him on September 13, was barred from entering the European Parliament on September 16 where she was scheduled to speak. Mendel herself attributed the entry denial directly to Zelensky's sanctions but conducted her speech virtually despite the block.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure, battlefield claim or single-source assertion should be treated as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source or a named official. Zelensky's sanctions against Mendel involve stripping state awards, freezing her assets, and restricting capital movement out of Ukraine. Mendel is a vocal critic of Zelensky and has publicly echoed narratives described by Kyiv Independent as Russian propaganda, including describing Zelensky as a 'dictator' and the 'greatest obstacle to peace' in Ukraine during an interview with U.S. far-right podcaster Tucker Carlson in May.

Mendel’s invitation to speak at the European Parliament came through a side event organized by Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for opposing military and financial aid to Ukraine. Mendel’s participation at the event drew criticism from Ukrainian figures online, reflecting divisions over engagement with European far-right groups during wartime.

Known from the source

• Iulia Mendel was sanctioned by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on September 13.
• The sanctions against Mendel included stripping state awards, freezing assets, and barring capital movement out of Ukraine.
• Mendel was barred from entering the European Parliament on September 16 where she was due to speak.
• She delivered her speech virtually after being denied entry.
• Mendel has publicly criticized Zelensky and echoed Russian propaganda narratives, including in a May interview with Tucker Carlson.

What remains unclear

The situation underscores ongoing debates around freedom of speech, loyalty, and peace advocacy within Ukraine, especially in the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Zelensky’s use of sanctions against domestic critics accused of disseminating opposing narratives adds complexity to Kyiv’s internal political landscape and Ukraine's relations with European institutions.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Verify the official details and scope of Mendel's sanctions by the Ukrainian government. Confirm the organization and sponsorship of the European Parliament sideline event involving Mendel. Confirm Mendel’s attribution that her barred entry was due to Zelensky sanctions.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Kyiv Independent. Open the source.